Cycling on Purpose - a nonprofit committed to driving change by raising awareness of the youth mental health crisis and providing tools and resources to parents, educators, the community, and organizations.
"According to recent studies, an increasing number of young people are experiencing mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. These issues often go unaddressed, leading to further complications in their academic, social, and personal lives."
Its founder, Travis, grew up struggling with undiagnosed ADHD and low self-confidence. In 2021, the surgeon general's advisory, "protecting youth mental health", laid out specific steps to combat those same issues for youth today.
With fundraising efforts including events that bring communities together and inspire change in real life, Cycling on Purpose is determined to follow the advice of the surgeon general and connect individuals, families, communities, environments, and societies with practical skills they can use to better support young people today.
The Mission: To support today’s youth in fostering purposeful lives by advocating for improved mental health policies and services, encouraging responsible device usage, and connecting communities in real life.
GENEROSITY: to give resources, time, energy, and focus to one another - particularly our youngest and most vulnerable who are looking to adults to set examples for how to live with purpose
CURIOSITY: to always be asking questions and learning more about each other, our world, and our potential in ways that foster improvement and purpose
ACCOUNTABILITY: to respect and appreciate ourselves and one another by exercising integrity and responsibility without stigma so that everyone benefits
RESILIENCY: to know that failure breeds growth by seeking and expecting challenges so that we are always working toward being our best selves,even especially when it's hard.
Support youth in fostering purposeful lives: educating youth and their families about purpose (what you love+what your skills are+what the world needs)
Drive community change: modeling generosity; sharing real life examples of living with purpose; dismantling negative stigma around seeking and prioritizing mental health services; engaging in real life
Improve mental health policies and services: advocating for practical and impactful change; partnering with organizations and service providers that prioritize mental health
Encourage and model responsible device usage: challenging schools and families to limit device use and connect in real life
Connect communities: hosting in person events while cycling from WA to IN
Bringing the mission to life . . .
"I’ve always believed in the healing power of connection and purpose. [My cousin] Brent’s death hit me hard, not only because I lost a beloved family member, but also because it made me question what I was doing with my own life.
As I grappled with overwhelming emotions, I realized I wasn’t just mourning my cousin who had passed—I was mourning lost time, opportunities, and the very essence of what it means to truly live," Travis wrote.
Out of these intertwined memories and painful losses emerged Cycling On Purpose. I decided to channel my grief, my love for cycling, and my desire to see real change into a mission that goes beyond one person's journey.
Our children—the next generation—deserve a future free from the crippling weight of mental health challenges. They deserve the chance to experience childhood with resilience, joy, and hope.
Through this journey, I hope to spark conversations, raise awareness, and empower families, educators, and communities with practical tools and knowledge to affect their own change through purpose and resilience. (The purpose I gained from planning this ride and starting my nonprofit was the catalyst that turned the tide of my depression.)
Having a sense of purpose and passion can significantly impact a young person's mental well-being. Engaging in activities that align with their interests and values can provide a sense of fulfillment and direction, reducing feelings of anxiety and depression.
Encouraging young people to explore their passions and set meaningful goals can foster a positive outlook on life. Whether it's through academics, sports, arts, or community service, finding a purpose can empower youths to overcome challenges and build resilience.
Riding a bike across the country is more than a physical journey—it’s a powerful statement. Each mile pedaled shines a light on the youth mental health crisis, starting conversations in places where silence often wins. It’s a moving symbol of resilience, reminding others that even the toughest roads can be navigated with purpose, support, and hope.