Tour de Slate 2024

     All of the net proceeds go to Adult and Teen Challenge, Vermont.

Vermont has one of the highest illicit drug usage rates in the nation. Almost everyone knows of someone, a neighbor, a co-worker, a friend, whose family has been impacted by this epidemic. According to some surveys, Teen Challenge is the most successful drug and alcohol abuse recovery program in the nation. It is totally funded by private donations and other fundraising events. No one is ever turned away due to lack of funds. Teen Challenge’s 3-pronged approach includes prevention programs in schools, the men’s resident program, and the newly opened women’s resident program.

    This year's event will occur on August 3, 2024. This will be the seventh year of the ride. Each year has seen significant growth with an average increase in funds raised approximately 24.2% annually. Even during the  years of the Covid-19 pandemic and its resulting restrictions, the increase in funds raised were in that percentage range. Last year, 2023, $53,090.00 was donated. Our goal for this year is to again see a significant increase with a target goal of $60,000.00.

    Tour de Slate Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization. Our expense level has been less than 17% of gross revenue, with a “cost to raise donations” ratio of less than 1.3%. These figures would give Tour de Slate Inc a “highly efficient” rating by charity watch groups.

    The rides will start and finish in Middletown Springs, Vt. and will be followed by a scrumptious hot lunch/dinner served on the green in Middletown Springs. The Tour de Slate is made up of six different routes designed to provide an enjoyable ride no matter what your level of experience. The most challenging routes are a metric century (100km) road ride and a 40 mile 'groad' (combination gravel and paved) ride. The additional choices of a 26 mile groad, 36 or 25 mile road routes or family friendly (off road rails to trails) will ensure that there is a ride suitable for everyone. The Tour de Slate is aptly named as it tours the world-renowned Slate Valley of western Vermont and bordering New York state.

    Projected Attendance: 500 (this includes riders, volunteers and friends).

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    Target Audience: General public but specifically riders, volunteers and friends.

What was the attendance last year? Approximately 300 (120 riders,+ volunteers and friends)

    Who benefits from this event?

    All net proceeds from the event get donated to Adult and Teen Challenge, VT. At any given point in time there are about 50 to 75 residents in their program. However, that is only part of the story. For each resident, there are many extended family members whose lives will also be improved by the success of this program. In last year's event there were about 20 riders from the program and about 10 volunteers. The riders did considerable fundraising and many, many family members contributed to their efforts. There is also a women's residential facility where broken, abused women suffering from many societal issues can find peace, safety and restoration. There is a location in Rutland, VT where the needy are being served. It is an entry portal to the Johnson, Vt. men's residential facility and the women's home in Hardwick, VT

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