Annual motorcycle run to support ACT programs
A local motorcycle run and brunch that ends on Captiva is signing up bikers and passengers.
Organized by Abuse Counseling and Treatment Inc., the Annual David Barbur Biker’s Brunch will begin on Aug. 18 at 9:30 a.m. at Stu’s Motorcycles in Fort Myers, with registration opening at 8:30 a.m. The run will wind its way from Fort Myers and onto the islands, concluding at the Keylime Bistro.
At the restaurant, event participants will enjoy a buffet-style brunch.
“We’ve been doing it for over five years,” ACT Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Benton said.
The run was started by a former ACT board member, who passed from a brain tumor.
“We wanted to continue his legacy,” she said of Barbur, noting that he also was an avid biker.
The proceeds will support safe, free and confidential programs for victims of domestic violence and their children and sexual assault and human trafficking survivors in Lee, Hendry, and Glades counties.
“During the summer months, it’s kind of tough to raise money,” Benton said.
She explained that ACT operates shelters with 115 beds and offers personal care items, clothing, counseling and tutoring, financial literacy and GED programs, and more to those who need it.
“They go right into our direct service programs,” she said of the funds raised.
Last year, approximately 80 people took part in the event.
“We raised just shy of $5,000,” Benton said.
She added that participation has increased over the years.
The cost is $25 per person, including for passengers; it covers the Sanibel Causeway toll.
Participants also will receive brunch, have a chance to win raffle prizes and more.
Benton explained that there will be prize giveaways at Stu’s Motorcycles before the participants take off, along with a blessing of the bikes. Coffee and donuts also will be provided in the morning.
“We’ll have more raffles,” she said of arriving at the Keylime Bistro.
Some of the prizes include restaurant, Amazon and Starbucks gift cards and such.
“And the brunch is really outstanding,” Benton added.
Those would like to show their support without making the run – and get to enjoy the brunch and activities at the Keylime Bistro – are more than welcome to. The cost is only $20 per person.
“If they want to come out and support the cause, it helps,” she said.
The community is encouraged to register or swing by afterward for the festivities.
“We’ve been around for almost 40 years now,” Benton said. “We have a lot of clients that need us and we want to continue to provide this service.”
“And it’s just a nice Sunday drive out to Captiva,” she added. “The island itself is so beautiful.”
For more information or to register in advance, call 239-939-2553 or visit www.actabuse.com/event/annual-david-barbur-bikers-brunch.
Online registrations will be taken until Aug. 16 at noon.
Raffle items are still being accepted. To donate, email Benton at jbenton@actabuse.com.
Stu’s Motorcycles is at 4607 6 Mile Cypress Parkway.
The Keylime Bistro is at 11509 Andy Rosse Lane.