Gran Fondo Organizers Named "Heroes to the Homeless''
Published on February 09, 2018
Marty Epstein and Bill Ruddick: Changing Lives One Mile at a Time in Morris County
Marty and Bill. These names go hand in hand and are known to many throughout the Morris County region. They are local heroes to Homeless Solutions and will be honored by the nonprofit organization at its 18th Annual Dream Builders' Bash on March 2.
(JPG, 150KB) Marty Epstein (left) and Bill Ruddick hold a resolution they received in 2017 from the Morris County Board of Freeholders for their Gran Fondo efforts
Seven years ago, Marty Epstein of Marty's Reliable Cycle and Bill Ruddick, Director of Gran Fondo NJ created Gran Fondo NJ, a statewide cycling event that starts and ends in Morristown. Their mission was simple: "Give back to the community through cycling.
Gran Fondo donates a portion of its proceeds to local non-profits and provides a platform to raise awareness for their causes, and to generate much-needed funds. This has become a signature fundraising event for Homeless Solutions, and their Riding for Homes bike team continues to grow and make an impact on the needs of the homeless in Morris County.
(PNG, 17KB)Last year, the proceeds enabled Homeless Solutions to complete its newest multi-family, affordable property in Morristown. This made the dreams of two families to own their own homes a reality.
To me, what is most significant is how the Gran Fondo has structured the event to become a contributor to organizations like Homeless Solutions. They have made Morris County a better place to live, said Homeless Solutions Board Member Steve Trozinski.
The March 2 event will be held at the Westin Governor Morris. For more information on the Dream Builders' Bash, please reach out to the Event Manager at LaceyBerdela@hsinj.org.
Homeless Solutions is a private, non-profit organization with 35 years of experience in meeting the needs of those affected by homelessness in Morris County. Their mission is to offer shelter, services, and supportive housing to homeless and low-income people.
HSI runs four shelter programs and a transitional housing program to help guests develop the skills to successfully return to independent living. For more information visit https://www.homelesssolutions.org/programs-services/