Frequently Asked Questions

In fact we are constantly amazed at God’s faithfulness in proving for the needs of our community through the volunteers and support of HELP ministry. The MAD ride has become one of the most significant fundraisers for HELP ministry, but most of our support still comes through the faithful giving of local people, churches and businesses. By participating in the MAD ride, by riding or volunteering, you truly can Make A Difference to people in the Mason county area!

How much does it cost?

Registration is $25.00 until August 5th and then 30.00 until the day of the ride. This defrays the costs of food and supplies. We encourage our riders to collect sponsors who would give a certain amount per mile or for the completed ride. Bring $100 in sponsor money and ride for free!!! Tee shirts can be ordered when pre-registering for $20.00, and then picked up at the ride.

Why do you keep changing the starting location?

We enjoyed the Methodist church for two years who graciously let us use their facilities. We have had feedback; however, that after spending several hours in the sun, our riders would like a nice shady place to rest and enjoy our picnic. Trinity provides us a nice shady picnic place, it is a short distance from the Methodist church, and we’ve been borrowing their picnic tables anyway!

How long is the ride?

There are four loops 14, 20, 62 100 miles that have staffed rest stops for refreshment or “taking care of business”.

How can I help H.E.L.P.?

Although the most obvious answer is to throw lots of cash our way, and we do need money to operate, that is not what we are about. Most of the needs we meet cost little or nothing to fill. Your hand-me-downs can be someone else’s treasure. Working appliances, sturdy beds, pot ‘n pans and clean used furniture-- these are all items for which we have a wait list and your gift will help shine God’s light wherever it goes.

We have a constant stream of requests for transportation to appointments both locally and as far as Grand Rapids.

Repairing a broken hinge, a leaky faucet, or doing an automotive brake job-- painting, yard work, building a handicap ramp-- not expensive but enormously HELPful!

The easiest way to help HELP is to pray-- God sustains this ministry daily; it is truly His ministry to the local area.

What does SAG mean?

Support and gear. Don’t you feel better knowing that?

Will I meet famous people?

Probably not, but you will meet people of all ages that truly care about their neighbors! All of the rest stop workers, SAG riders, food prepares, etc. are volunteers who are giving their time to reach their neighbors who have needs.

Won’t I get hungry?

Of course! And thirsty too. Don’t worry we’ve got you covered! All of the rest stops have food and water. Alternate stops have cookies, sandwiches, peanut butter, fruit, prime rib (this one is well hidden) and energy drinks. We will be serving picnic type refreshments at the end.

I hate snakes-- are there snakes?

We have asked all of the snakes to leave and they have assured us that they will do so. They have also promised to take all their rodent, reptile and arachnid friends with them.

The insects are being less cooperative.

What if it rains?

Ride on! The postal workers are all on duty, how could we do any less? Besides, rain tends to be short lived in Mason county. If its raining now, it will likely be sunny in a few minutes or hours.

Why do you charge me to ride my bike?

First of all, all of the food signs and gas we use for the ride the ride does cost money. Mostly it is because this is a fundraiser, and all profits go towards the needs of Mason country residents.

Will this improve my math skills?

In the spirit of exercising your mind and body, we will require correct answers to simple arithmetic problems to get water. To get peanut butter or granola you’ll need algebra, and anything better needs calculus. To score the prime rib you need to be good at differential equations using transcendental number sets.

OK, just kidding, if you can follow arrows and ride a bike you’re good.

What do I get to remember the ride?

Mostly you get fond memories and hopefully a few new friends. If you want something more tangible, you can order a cool shirt-- click here to see what it may look like. Prior year’s shirts will be available at the ride for a discount.

What age do I have to be?

If you can read this, you’re old enough for sure, but we don’t place a limit on ages. We require that all children 12 years old or younger be accompanied by an adult, and that an adult parent or legal guardian sign the registration and waiver for anyone under 18 years old.

Are there hills?

That depends. The short loop is pretty flat, and the long loops have a some hills. This isn’t mountainous country, so if you are able to go the length of any given route you should be able to handle the hills involved. If you would like some custom topography, you will have to take that up with the Big Guy.

What colors are the routes?

We like red, yellow, blue and green.

The male riders tend get lost following colors like fuchsia or chartreuse.

Does this count for college credit?

Wouldn’t that be cool!

Is this really just a fad diet?

What?

Will this get me into heaven?

No, sorry you can get there by doing things like this. A million-dollar donation to H.E.L.P. ministries won’t get you any closer either. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ is all you need!

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” -- John 3:16

You used to give away lots of cool stuff. What happened?

Now we give away better stuff– but you have to work for it! Please consider collecting sponsors and look at the great incentives you can get.