The Bikers for Babies event experienced another strong turnout this year, with more than 100 riders and volunteers, and raised a total of $9,300 for the Pregnancy Care Center Martinsville-Henry County. The annual ride helps ensure that mothers have free access to sonograms, support services, and baby supplies through the center.
The event drew 128 riders and about 30 volunteers. Coordinator Patrick Rusmisel said he was encouraged by the result, even though the ride fell just short of his personal goal.
“We raised $9,300. I was hoping to hit $10,000 this year, but we didn’t,” Rusmisel said. “I think it was one of the years we went over $9,000, maybe two years ago, so it’s up there.”
While the majority of participants rode motorcycles, a few cars also joined in. The riders returned after about an hour and gathered for a barbecue dinner, where they shared fellowship and conversation. A raffle of 13 donated items added to the fundraising total.
Rusmisel noted that the proceeds will go into the center’s general fund rather than a designated project.
“It’s just for the general fund of the pregnancy care center,” he said. “According to Paula Wood, the executive director, $17,000 a month is what it costs them to run that center, you know, that’s what few salaries they have.”
He said the money helps cover expenses such as salaries, rent, and utilities.
“We got close to half of that, which makes me happy,” he said.
Rusmisel also addressed concerns about event expenses. For the first time, organizers expected to pay for use of the “Big Chair” parking lot. But a local business owner stepped in to cover the cost.
“It was an amazing day, it really was, and we have some amazing people in Martinsville,” Rusmisel said. “I mentioned about the parking lot cost. Well, Tim Martin, who owns the showroom there, he’s gonna get our money reimbursed.
“I just believe that’s a move of God that said, hey, look, you don’t need to be paying for this. This is too important. We’re not making money here; we’re handing money to a place that saves babies. So yeah, Tim Martin is helping us recoup those dollars, which is great, fantastic.”
Looking ahead, Rusmisel said Bikers for Babies is working to expand its outreach.
“We’re venturing into a festival,” he said. “Bikers for Babies will be the organizing committee for a festival next spring at the Smith River Sports Complex. And it’s called Come to the River to Praise.”
The event is planned for spring 2026, and Rusmisel said planning is still in the early stages. He hopes the community will embrace the new festival as another way to support local families.
For more information about the center, visit https://pregcc.com/about/ or call (276) 634-5433.
