What began in 2009 with four parents biking from Oakland Tech to the State Capitol, Ride 4 A Reason (R4R) has now raised more than $2 million for public schools in Oakland and Alameda — bringing life-changing experiences to over 6,300 students. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, April 25.
Last year, the event included more than 325 riders who raised over $225,000. As a result, twelve beneficiary schools each received between $11,000 and $14,000 to support student learning, leadership, and success. Local schools receiving funding include Oakland Tech, Emerson Elementary and Oakland International High School.
Many R4R schools lack a formal PTA or other nonprofit fundraising arm, making it difficult to secure private donations. The majority of them serve students from historically marginalized communities, including English language learners, migrant families, and students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch—at five schools, that figure is 90 percent or higher.
In 2024, R4R adopted a more equitable distribution policy to ensure schools with the greatest financial need receive proportionally greater support. The organization continues to champion increased funding for California public education while focusing on eleven East Bay schools with significant unmet needs. This fills critical gaps — paying for essentials such as library books, sports equipment, art and science supplies, after-school programs — and staff positions including counselors, librarians, and reading specialists.
Cyclists of all levels can participate. Riders may choose the 110-mile journey from Oakland to Sacramento, beginning at Oakland Technical High School; the scenic 68-mile route from Suisun City; or the family-friendly 45-mile ride from Vacaville with minimal elevation gain. All routes end at the California State Capitol in Sacramento with a catered lunch and rally celebrating riders and advocating for public education funding. A virtual option is also available.
R4R asks each rider to raise a minimum of $250 toward the collective $200,000 goal. Business and community sponsors play a crucial role by covering operating costs, ensuring that 100 percent of rider-raised funds go directly to schools. Ride 4 A Reason is fiscally sponsored by Social Good Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Learn more, register, or volunteer at r4rschools.org. Questions? Contact Nora Vargas-Dye at R4RSchools1@gmail.com.
