Last year's Eden Health Care Services' Head For The Hills was an event to remember says Earl Reimer, Director of Development with Eden Foundation.
That spirit was once again felt this year, with 188 registered riders, and 173 participants putting the pedal to the metal, raising $108,000 for Eden Health Care Services.

Reimer says Head for the Hills is their premier fundraiser, helping to support their numerous services. These include housing, employment, counselling, community care through Pathways Community Services. Also, critical care through the local hospital, aids to provide hope, healing and community to those in their mental health journey.

Always wanting to give back to their community, the Winkler Fire Department took to their bikes and also donated the $6,700 from their annual boot drive. Firefighter Peter Neufeld explains why they take part in numerous community events throughout the year.

"We like to participate and show community involvement. Every year, different events are going on and [fire department] members will pick their favourites. [Head for the Hills] is something a number of us have been involved with for quite a few years."

This year, four firefighters rode bikes, and others were involved in first aid for other riders.

Designed to ensure any cyclist has the chance to participate, Eden has been striving to return to the riding days they've had in the past.

"The ride is neat," says Reimer, "it provides the opportunity for people of a whole variety of skills to take part in it, young kids are riding it. Some of them are riding tag with mom and dad, and some are riding their own bikes. Then we have 80-year-old people doing it as well too, and I love that when we have such a spectrum of people."

The route is approximately 36 kilometres, starting at Colert Beach in Morden and ending just south of the Old Mason School. There are two rest stops along the way; Reimer says these are situated so they can ensure everyone has made it and no one gets lost. Motorized transports are also available at these sites for those who are not able to continue the rest of the journey.

Eden Health Care Services CEO Kym Kaufmann says it was a great day and a great ride. She added without the generous support from donors, some of the programs they offer wouldn't be possible.