ATHOL — If you organize it, they will ride.
That’s what Linda Meuse is hoping for at the Benefit Bike/Poker Run set for Saturday, July 21, with a rain date of Sunday, July 22. The event to benefit homeless veterans is hosted by the Franco-American Club at 592 South St.
“This is in honor of our homeless veterans who have given so much for our country so that we may continue to enjoy the freedoms that have been afforded to us as a result of their brave and courageous efforts,” said Meuse.
“My father and two brothers served. This is a way of giving back,” said Meuse, a member of the Franco-American Club.
She said proceeds will go directly to Veterans Inc. in Worcester.
Meuse said a collection of items for the veterans is under way, and socks, toiletries, clothing, “anything that may be useful to a homeless veteran,” may be dropped off at the club at any time during business hours.
“I have been collecting items for the veterans since January,” said Meuse. “A couple girls from another club suggested I go bigger and hold a ‘Poker Run.’ I’ve never done it before, so they’re helping me get it started.”
Meuse has also organized other fundraisers, is active in her church, and collects food for the food pantry.
The Franco-American Club is gearing up for a major event, especially if the weather is cooperative. Following the motorcycle ride, it will serve a chicken barbecue dinner with all the fixings. Club Manager Norman LaFountain confirmed that the club has donated use of the banquet hall for the event. The hall capacity is roughly 160 people.
Registration on July 21 will begin at 9 a.m. for both riders ($20) and passengers ($10) and includes the barbecue dinner. Tickets for the dinner only are $10.
Participants will begin the ride and make five stops, where they will receive a poker card toward building the best poker hand. The final stop will be the Franco-American Club, where the winner of the Poker Run will be revealed, and other activities will be held. There will be a 50/50 drawing and a “guess-the-mileage contest.” There will be raffles of donated prizes, including 17 gift certificates and baskets donated by local merchants and individuals.
“We are hoping to add more sponsors for this event to help show how much our homeless veterans are appreciated,” said Meuse.
Sponsors may donate cash or prizes. Donations, large or small, may be dropped off at the club, or contact Meuse at 978-544-8909 to discuss details of your contribution.
“I hope people come,” she said. “If this goes well, maybe we will do one for BACA (Bikers Against Child Abuse International) next year,” said Meuse.