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I want to take a moment to reflect on a dear friend of mine, Randy Mack. Randy is not just my partner in business, but a partner and friend to countless other people through his charitable efforts. You probably are not aware of Randy’s devoted contributions, financially and time-wise, to numerous local charities.
As a member of the Redwood HOG (Harley Owners Group), Randy and his band of biker friends have help raise thousands of dollars for The Council On Aging and Valley of the Moon Children’s Foundation, to name just a couple.
This month, the HOG chapter’s 26th annual “Summer Run” took place at the Sonoma County Harley-Davidson in Cotati on Saturday, August 16th. For the cost of a $20 entry fee, attendees were treated to a poker hand, run pin to first 500, lunch at Penngrove Park, music, prizes, vendors, slow ride races, a ride-in bike show and a chapter challenge. A $5 bike raffle also took place, for the chance to win a 2014 Harley Davison Street Bob. All event proceeds go to benefit the Council on Aging’s Meals on Wheels Program for seniors in our area.
Charity is a self-replenishing act of kindness, compassion and faith in humanity. I feel it is of the utmost importance that we all take a piece of ourselves in some way and give back to our communities. The benefits far outweigh any possible negatives, not to mention it just makes you feel good!
A broad definition of a charitable exchange is the act of giving money, goods or time to the unfortunate, either directly or by means of worthy cause. Most forms of charity are concerned with providing basic necessities, such as food, water, clothing or shelter. Alternatively, many actions are commonly performed as charity, such as visiting the homebound, sitting with someone who is grieving, and so on. Donations to causes that benefit the unfortunate indirectly, such as donations to fund cancer research, or a hospital are also considered charity.
The important thing I want people to remember is that charitable giving, whether in the form of a service, money or time, is as important as spending time with your friends and family. The relationships built and lasting effect of charitable actions can be very powerful, and I encourage everyone to participate. There are multiple food banks, social organizations and programs that could use your help. I suggest you find one that suits your passions in life and call them to see how you can be of service!
Thank you, Randy, for your contributions to our local community, and for continually setting such a strong example through your own giving and service. I appreciate the work you do, and I am looking forward to riding along with your HOG group someday soon on my own Harley!
Heidi Faulkner
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