Matthew Docimo and Michael Brooks, members of the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity charity Push America, are halfway through their bike ride across America to raise money for people with disabilities. | Courtesy of Matthew Docimo
UH’s Beta Nu chapter of the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and their national philanthropy organization, Push America, has organized a team of cyclists to raise more than $500,000 to help support people living with disabilities through their 68-day Journey of Hope ride across the nation.
“My first experience with Push America began in the fall of 2011,” said supply chain management senior Matthew Docimo.
“I participated in building a playground for children with disabilities at a local church in Tulsa, Okla. Watching the children play was priceless, but seeing every single parent approach the team with tears was unforgettable; and that is what influenced my decision to help with those that are disabled.”
Docimo and his biking partner Michael Brooks, began in San Francisco and are currently at their halfway mark in Grand Island, Neb.
“My influence derives from Sergio Brereda, a member of our fraternity who is disabled,” Brooks said. “Although he is disabled, he continues to keep going and it is amazing to see so much dedication.”
Docimo and Brooks said when they are riding and feel like quitting, they think about the people who are disabled but continue to push through their limitations.
“People with disabilities can’t opt out of their disabilities, so who am I to opt out from riding in support of them?” Brooks said.
The duo will continue to ride to Lincoln, Neb. for the next 12 days and are planning to ride cross-country until they arrive in Washington D.C. on Aug. 10.
Brooks has raised more than $6,000 and Docimo has raised more than $9,600, with the nation-wide team already exceeding their goal of raising $500,000 this summer.
“We try to change the way society feels. People focus on what the disabled can’t do,” Docimo said.
“In reality it’s amazing to see what they can do. It’s eye opening to think that we will change their lives, but they change ours. They are the hero’s. The fraternity is just a symbol for society.”
news@thedailycougar.com