Latham’s Freedom of Independence Ride to Benefit Retrieving Freedom Inc.
The excitement of adventure and the freedom of the open road has prompted hundreds of Midwest farmers to join the Latham Freedom Ride in the past. This year we’re hoping to spark even more interest among motorcycle enthusiasts as we ride throughout eastern Iowa, raising awareness of Retrieving Freedom (RFI) and funds for its service dog training program.
One hundred percent of a rider’s $25 registration fees for the 2016 Latham Freedom of Independence Ride will benefit RFI. The $25 per rider registration fee includes two meals plus a commemorative t-shirt and a do-rag. The event will conclude that evening with a performance by Nashville recording artist Neil Hewitt.
Staging for the 2016 Latham Freedom of Independence Ride will be at Scott County Park near Davenport, Iowa. Lunch will be served followed by a series of fun stops as we learn about the latest in seed industry technologies and tour local attractions. Riders can look forward to stops at Antique Archaeology, home base for Mike Wolfe of American Pickers reality television series, and a guest appearance by Retrieving Freedom dogs in training.
Retrieving Freedom Inc. of Waverly, Iowa, trains service dogs for placement with disabled veterans and children with autism. The organization receives 4 requests for every dog that has been trained through its program, so more money is needed to train more dogs, says Scott Dewey, RFI co-founder and co-president.
Retrieving Freedom spends two years training specific dogs to place with disabled veterans and individuals with autism. As a 501c (3) non-profit organization, Dewey says RFI strives to maximize the value of each donation by incorporating experienced volunteers, in-kind donations, and a limited staff.
“Trained service dogs allow veterans and children to regain their independence from simply sustaining in life to thriving,” says Dewey. “This is why we hope many farmers, who enjoy riding motorcycles, will join Latham Seeds on R.E.D. Shirt Friday to become part of this amazing journey.”
Help us “Remember Everyone Deployed” and show support for those who have proudly served our country, defending our freedoms. Register today for the 2016 Latham Freedom of Independence Ride.
To get a feel for the Latham Freedom Ride, check out the following coverage of our past rides: