In 2008, the passion for cycling and the desire to make a difference in their community for victims of domestic violence brought together the Lakemont Ladies Cycling Club and the Rising Star Guild and Cycle the WAVE was created.
Rising Star Guild
The Rising Star Guild (RSG) is a local group of women volunteers from Issaquah and surrounding Eastside communities in Washington State who work to affect change for victims of domestic violence by raising funds for Eastside Domestic Violence Program (EDVP). The RSG was founded in the year 2000 by a contingent of “Issaquah PTA Moms” who wanted to remain engaged in their community in a purposeful way as their school-age children grew. RSG is not a separate entity but a fundraising group which conducts activities to raise funds for EDVP.
Since 2006, the Lakemont Ladies Cycling Club (LLCC) has grown from a casual email between friends to over 100 active members from many cities in King County, Washington. The Club consists of enthusiastic women cyclists of all fitness levels and ages who are encouraged to discover their potential in the safe and fun environment of a recreational club.
Cycle the WAVE’s Mission:
Fitness with a purpose: To unite women and their communities to increase awareness of domestic violence and raise critical funds for domestic violence programs.
In 2007, Sharon Anderson marshaled a call for action to the Ladies Lakemont Cycling Club and the Rising Star Guild. Both groups were troubled by the tragic impact of domestic violence for one in four women. The answer to this call for action was the first annual Cycle the WAVE (Women Against Violence Everywhere) fundraiser. In September 2008, 233 riders raised $20,000 for Eastside Domestic Violence Program.
In September 2009, with the continued commitment of the RSG and LLCC and the interest from cyclists, Cycle the WAVE grew to 604 riders and raised over $66,000 with net proceeds of over $50,000 for EDVP. The following year, the event registered 801 riders and raised over $100,000 with net proceeds of $80,000 for EDVP. Cycle the WAVE is operated and maintained by volunteers, allowing 100% of the net proceeds to benefit programs that support victims of domestic violence.