Bushnell Hosts Fuller Center Cyclists, Showcasing Local Support for Housing Mission
By: Forgottonia Times™ Report
Riders preparing outside the CCC in Bushnell.
The Fuller Center Bike Adventure (FCBA) has a storied history of combining the love of cycling with a profound mission to help those in need. Founded as an extension of The Fuller Center for Housing, the bike adventure brings together cyclists from all walks of life to participate in cross-country rides that fund and build houses for families in need.
The Fuller Center for Housing itself was established by Millard and Linda Fuller in 2005. Millard Fuller, who also founded Habitat for Humanity, dedicated his life to eradicating poverty housing. The Fuller Center continues this mission by engaging volunteers in building projects across the globe, emphasizing a hands-on rather than a handout approach.
Mission and Routes
The FCBA rides are more than just a physical challenge; they are a journey of service. Riders embark on various routes across the United States, each designed to raise awareness and funds for the Fuller Center’s housing projects. These routes can span thousands of miles, with cyclists stopping along the way to rest, regroup, and most importantly, participate in local building projects. This unique aspect sets the FCBA apart, as it combines the physical endurance of a long-distance ride with the tangible impact of hands-on volunteer work. Through it’s efforts, FCBA has housed over 7800 families in 90 plus cities.
A Stop in Bushnell, Illinois
One notable stop on this year’s adventure was in Bushnell, Illinois. Here, cyclists were welcomed to rest and sleep overnight. Local organizations played a significant role in this stopover. The Community Christian Center of Bushnell graciously hosted the bikers, while the Friends Feeding Friends team ensured the group was well-fed and ready for the next leg of their journey.
Local Riders Join the Cause
This year, the Bushnell stop was particularly special as three local men—Nathaniel Roberts and his counterparts Will and John—were sponsored by CR Builders of Bushnell to join the ride. These men rode with the FCBA from Bushnell to Creve Coeur, Illinois, covering nearly 70 miles. Their participation highlighted local support for the Fuller Center’s mission and demonstrated the power of community involvement.
Nathaniel expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to join the FCBA. "It was a pleasure to participate with this group who is giving back to local communities along the way," he said. "A work project was going on July 10th in Creve Coeur when the three men joined in on the ride, and we were thankful that they quickly agreed to us joining them for the time that we were able." Nathaniel also extended thanks to the Community Christian Center and the Friends Feeding Friends team, emphasizing the importance of community support in making such initiatives successful. "Thank you to the Community Christian Center for hosting and the Friends Feeding Friends team for feeding the group," he added.
The Fuller Center Bike Adventure is a testament to what can be achieved when individuals come together for a common cause. Through their dedication to cycling and service, participants not only challenge themselves but also make a lasting impact on the communities they visit. The stop in Bushnell, Illinois, and the involvement of local riders like Nathaniel, Will, and John serve as a powerful reminder of the difference that can be made when people unite for a greater good.
To learn more about FCBA visit their website at Fuller Center Bike Adventure
