First Source has been a proud sponsor and supporter of the Ride for Missing Children for many years. And while the event has grown and evolved, the mission is always the same, "To Keep our Children Safer…One Child at a Time".
From Tragic Beginnings
On August 18, 1993, the unthinkable happened. A tragedy hit the Mohawk Valley as 12-year-old Sara Anne Wood was riding her bicycle from church in Sauquoit, NY, and never made it home. She was taken by a serial abductor who was out searching for his next victim. Our community rallied like only we know how to do, immediately springing into action. Pictures of Sara were printed and posted everywhere. Our local, regional, and national law enforcement was on the case, which today is sadly still an open one.
A Phoenix Rises
But Sara’s legacy lives on. Because of her disappearance, a tribute bicycle ride was established to bring education, awareness, and safety messages to our schools and our children. Taking the initiative to proactively prevent further tragedies like Sara’s. In honor of Sara, in 1995, 7 cyclists from the Mohawk Valley rode from Utica, NY, to Washington D.C. arriving on May 25th, National Missing Children’s Day. They spoke with officials about stronger regulations, laws, and resources for child safety. Inspired by that first ride, a second group (this one much larger) of 43 riders rode their bicycles from the Capital Building in Albany, NY, to City Hall in Utica, NY, and here the Ride For Missing Children was born. In more recent years the Ride had to be capped at 400 Riders with a waiting list!
The Search Continues
This year, as the committee gears up for another annual Ride, they are going back to their roots, sharing the story of Sara and why they ride. First Source is proud to help this initiative by underwriting a screening of 48 Hours: The Unending Search for Sara Anne Wood at 6:00 pm on January 15th at Munson. The public is invited to view the episode and hear from Dusty Wood, Sara’s brother. Here you will also be able to learn more about The Ride For Missing Children and sign up to participate as a Rider or Volunteer if you choose.
The movie event is free, however a $5 donation that will go to The Ride’s general fundraising is suggested upon entrance.
Please register for the event here: