Not too long ago, a friend of mine started the Jackson Hole-based non-profit organization, Pursue Balance. PB (as she refers to it) provides information, education and support for creating happier, more balanced lives. Reaching out to local and global causes, Pursue Balance's home base is located here in Jackson Hole. And next Saturday, August 2nd, Pursue Balance will host an Around the Block road bike ride to help raise awareness and funds for the organization. When a friend first asked if I'd like to participate, I happily agreed. All I have to do is ride around the block for a good cause? Sure! Count me in! Of course, Jackson's definition of "around the block" is different from that of most other places. I quickly learned that we ain't talking the couple hundred yards of a city street. Oh no. This Around the Block ride to which I so readily agreed to do will take me 109 miles. I will (attempt to) ride over Pine Creek Pass into Victor, Idaho. From there, I can "refuel" before winding up Teton Pass for 14.4 miles (gaining 2,339 feet of elevation) and then drop down into Wilson, Wyoming.
Of course, should I decide that a Century Ride (as 100 miles in an uncomfortable bike seat is most commonly known) is too much, there are options to do a Quarter Block Ride (40 miles) and a Half Block Ride (70 miles). But I think I'm going to go for the 100 mile mark in my attempt to be charitable, the Jackson way. I figure that a bike ride that long is enough to garner the attention of my friends and family and raise some awareness for a great cause.
If a long bike ride isn't your thing, there are many other ways to give back Jackson-style. Check out these great organizations to see what kind of philanthropy is happening in the Tetons:
The Cougar Fund aims to protect the nation's largest wild cat through education across the United States and also by supporting scientific and monitoring efforts.
The Community Foundation supports nonprofits through grants and technical assistance that build sustainability and positively impact evolving, critical needs in Jackson Hole. If you want to help fund Jackson area nonprofits, Old Bill's Fun Run for the Community Foundation is a great way to do it.
Grand Teton Music Festival has been considered one of the most important summer music festivals in the country since its inception in 1962. The symphony orchestra brings brilliant musical performances to the Jackson area every year and is primarily funded by donations and the world renowned Jackson Hole Wine Auction.
Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance is dedicated to responsible land stewardship in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to ensure that human activities are in harmony with the area’s irreplaceable wildlife, scenic and other natural resources.