img: Desy Cheng
On Friday June 3rd, The Vancouver Art Gallery experienced an event unlike any other in its history.
Forty five stationary spin bikes were transported and installed in the Gallery’s famous rotunda (where Barbara Kruger’s artwork is currently exhibited) to transform the space into a spin studio. With the lights turned low and the music blasting, donors and supporters sweated to the beat of an energetic spin class led by the Vancouver studio Ride Cycle Club, in partnership with RIDE VS ONE.
The goal? To fundraise $100,000 in a single event to build a school and a three-year sustainable education program in Tule Ade, Ethiopia.
Following the spin class, the rotunda transformed into the city’s hottest 500-person party played by Vancouver’s loyally followed Slow Jams Sunday DJ Crew. The event was entirely volunteer run and 100% of the proceeds benefit the cause.
img: Desy Cheng
This grand event was created by Bettina Khan, a Vancouver entrepreneur and philanthropist. She founded RIDE VS ONE with the objective of breaking conventional fundraising strategies and to transform leadership. “My intention was to move the community to act for a cause much greater than all of us. I am extremely excited by the growth of RIDE VS ONE and humbled by the generosity of everyone who contributed.”
The numbers of this fundraiser are simple: one ride, one hour, one school, one community. A small team of volunteers worked tirelessly for seven months to produce this event; and over 20 brands contributed to the event.
“I had never experienced anything like this before. The setting couldn’t have been more perfect, the energy in the room was incredible, the art in the walls and floors was inspiring, the music was uplifting, and the instructors were very motivational. Everything rounded up to be an exceptional night where the children of Ethiopia get to enjoy the end result”, mentioned Joanna Riquett, founder of Hayo Magazine and supporter of the event.
img: Desy Cheng
imagine1day is an organization founded by Chip and Shannon Wilson to transform communities in Ethiopia, with the goal of ensuring all Ethiopian children have access to quality education, free of foreign aid, by 2030.
For more information about the event and to donate, visit www.ridevsone.com.
