In 1996, a concern about the future of at-risk, disadvantaged youth brought together a small group of bicycle enthusiasts from RAGBRAI®, Bike World and the Riverfront YMCA in Des Moines, Iowa. These forward-thinking mentors chose as their mission: "To assist youth in developing a healthy spirit, mind and body, and a productive approach to life's challenges through preparation for and participation in RAGBRAI." The Dream Team chose as their motto: "We Ride with Pride!"

Each fall, the mentors of the Dream Team collaborate with the Des Moines school system to identify youth, aged 13-18 years of age, who could benefit from the experience. Youth recruitment is dependent on the number of mentors and the funds available. During the winter months, teens and their mentors work out twice a week at Des Moines' Riverfront YMCA. When the weather improves, outdoor training rides take place twice a week with the addition of weekend distance rides and campouts.

On each training ride, Dream Team members ride with adult mentors. Mentors come from all walks of life and donate hundreds of volunteer hours. The mentors provide consistent support and the guidance necessary for the youth to gain the confidence and the technical riding skills needed to achieve their goal of completing RAGBRAI.

Teens who have completed two years of RAGBRAI and are determined to be qualified to advance to mentor status may continue as junior mentors for the Dream Team. Youth who have completed RAGBRAI once, and still seek the structure and positive influence of the Dream Team's after school and week-end activities may continue with the Dream Team provided there are enough adult mentors.

Upon completion of the training program and RAGBRAI, the reward is the privilege of owning the bicycle and equipment used during training. The young people now have the ability and the equipment to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The Dream Team relies on the generosity of businesses, bike clubs, charitable groups and caring individuals to fund the team's activities and equipment needs. Help these young people achieve the goal of a lifetime with a tax-deductible gift.

• An investment of $1,000 will sponsor a teen through the training program.
• $250 will purchase a bike for training.
• $75 will purchase refreshments for the monthly Parents' Meetings.
• $35 will purchase a safety helmet.
• An investment of any amount will help the Dream Team continue its mission and make a dream come true for those who ride with pride.

Please make your commitment today. We need your help!

Send your contribution to RAGBRAI, PO Box 622, Des Moines, IA 50303-0622. For additional information, please call RAGBRAI Director Jim Green at 515-284-8285, or email: jimg@ragbrai.org