The mission of KELLY'S RIDE is to raise money for specific agencies dedicated to improving the quality of life for disadvantaged girls and young women physically, academically, emotionally and spiritually, in tribute to Kelly Marie Vogdes. In2009, more than 500 riders, volunteers, sponsors and corporate donors raised thousands of dollars to help every girl reach her potential in a safe and nurturing environment.
On Saturday, June 5, we will host our fifth and final ride and we are hoping you will join us. Recruit five friends, raise $5 every day from someone or in someway, and finally, come out to our finish line party and celebrate the five years we have worked together to improve the lives of children in need.
Kelly’s Ride Beneficiaries:
- Amigos de Jesus Orphanage, Honduras www.amigosdejesus.org
- Construction of orphanage facilities to accommodate little girls
- Robins’ Nest, Inc., New Jersey www.robinsnestinc.org
- “Life Link” Homes for youth aging out of the child welfare system
- Creating and equipping a gym for client use as part of the holistic approach to healing
- Philadelphia University www.philau.edu/development/kellysride.html
- The Kelly Marie Vogdes Scholarship Fund. Our second scholar is entering her junior year studying fashion merchandising and design
Since the earthquake hit Haiti on January 21, over 300,000 little children have been orphaned, abandoned, or seriously injured. So, we are including the Fr. Wasson Baby House in Haiti as one of beneficiary agencies in 2010. This baby house will be dedicated especially to serving the needs of newborn to children aged 6.
Kelly was 25 years old and a remarkable young woman. With her exuberant energy, genuine warmth, and gregarious nature she stood out in a crowd. She displayed her love for life, family, and friends with wide open eyes, dimpled smiles, kindness, and compassion.
Born and raised in South Jersey, Kelly graduated from Camden Catholic High School and went on to complete her B.A. in Fashion Merchandising at Philadelphia University. Upon graduation, she was hired by the JONES Apparel Group. Pursuing an executive track position, her job site moved to New York but her heart and home remained in South Jersey.
If you were lucky enough to know Kelly, you would know that she would encourage you to follow your passions and live adventurously. She would also tell you to open your heart to give and receive the love that surrounds you every day.
Everyone fortunate enough to be loved by Kelly has been inspired to honor this bond by helping others who may not know what love feels like. Please mark your calendars and join us on Saturday, June 5 2010, when we host Kelly’s Ride for the fifth consecutive year! |
