About Us
History
Over 30 years ago, Ed Austin gathered a few friends and created the Steeple Chase Bike Tour – a cycling event to fundraise for the Windham Area Interfaith Ministry (WAIM). The event has grown every year, becoming a shared fundraiser in support of WAIM, Perception Programs, the Windham Region No Freeze Shelter, Cl!ck Food Hub and Cooperative Kitchen, and Project Imo. In recent years the event has added a walking tour, offroad trails, and other family-friendly activities.
Our Mission
The Steeple Chase Ride / Walk is a charity fund-raiser to support four local non-profit organizations: Windham Area Interfaith Ministry (WAIM), the Windham Region No Freeze Project, Cl!ck Food Hub and Cooperative Kitchen, and Project Imo. This event features cycling and walking routes through scenic Northeastern Connecticut's “Quiet Corner”.
How Funds Raised are Used
Our Non-Profits
Every dollar raised helps each agency carry out its critical mission of supporting and assisting those most in need in our community. All four agencies are based out and serve our neighbors right here in Eastern CT.
Windham Area Interfaith Ministry
In 2022, the Windham Area Interfaith Ministry used Steeple Chase funds for case management services to our low/no-income community members. This support helped 290 individuals from 143 families/households avoid eviction and remain safe in their homes; kept home heat and/or lights on for 362 people; made sure 473 children had clothing and/or supplies to start the new school year; and provided assistance to 113 individuals for transportation, medical or other unmet needs.
Windham Region No Freeze Project
The Windham Region No Freeze Project uses the Steeplechase funding to provide emergency shelter and housing services for adults experiencing homelessness. Last year, we sheltered 123 people in need of a warm, safe place to stay. We provided housing support and advocacy to 51 guests who are now permanently and safely living in their own homes.
Cl!ck Food Hub and Cooperative Kitchen
Cl!ck Food Hub and Cooperative Kitchen: Grow, Cook, Share: Recognizing the historical and institutional injustices of the American food system, CLiCK aims to grow a locally-based, just, healthy, and sustainable food economy. CLiCK’s shared-use commercial kitchens provide opportunities for farmers and culinary entrepreneurs, including those with low incomes, to incubate food-based businesses, while improving the health and vitality of our local community by teaching gardening, culinary arts, nutrition, and other food-related classes, all informed by a social justice perspective.
Project Imo
Project Imo is dedicated to empowering the youth of Windham and enriching the community through adventure and experiential education. Imo provide accessible, transformative experiences that equip young people with essential career and workforce skills. At the heart is a vibrant teen center, a hub of activity and learning where local youth can gather, grow, and gain hands-on experience.
Join us for a day of fun, food, and friends!
This year's event will be on
Saturday, August 17, 2024