Fernie RCMP Constable Ian Patchett will ride his bike for 1000 kilometeres over rough terrain for 10 days to support kids who are doing it tough in his community.
Every year dedicated RCMP officers volunteer their time and energy to support children who need a helping hand in the South East District. For the first time, Constable Patchett has signed up to ride for children that are in medical, physical or traumatic crisis within the Southern Interior Region of British Columbia.
“Basically our charity, ‘Cops for Kids’ covers expenses that other charities and the government doesn’t cover. For example, it might provide a wheelchair for those who can’t afford it,” said Constable Patchett. “We raise money to help youth under 20 who have a specific need.”
“The funding is available for kids not only in Fernie but in the wider East and West Kootenays. All monies raised go directly to the charity. It’s for a good cause, so I thought I would sign up.”
The grueling ten day ride begins in Penticton on September 16 and covers some very challenging and picturesque terrain. The riders head east on Highway 3, arriving in Cranbrook on the 21st. From here they travel north to Golden, before looping through Salmon Arm and Kamloops, to finish in Kelowna on September 25.
Constable Patchett has cycled for hours on a new road bike specifically purchased for the event and has been training on days off and in between shifts. He said he tries to go for as long as he can, to prepare for the eighthour days he will spend on the bike during the fundraiser.
Twenty-seven riders have signed up for the event, travelling from as far away as Ft. St John. “Each and every rider is constantly reminded of whom we ride for and we recognize that although we may have had a rough day it is nothing compared to the days that some children face with their own challenges with health, safety and happiness. For this we remain focused and dedicated,” said a Cops for Kids spokesperson.
Cop for Kids also organize various other fundraising functions throughout the district to keep the grant funding for children ongoing for the entire year. The RCMP are committed to little people they serve and are determined to making a difference in their lives.
To support Constable Patchett in his fundraising, visit the charity website at http://www.copsforkids.org/