(courtesy photo)

An organization that is focused on helping those with a military connection become viable members of society is organizing a benefit ride.

Ride all weekend

June 2: Rosary Ride to Shrine of St. Joseph

June 3: Beat the Heat Ride benefiting veterans

Veteran supporters and bike enthusiasts will ride through the valley June 3 to gather supplies and raise awareness for Catholic Charities’ MANA House Veterans Outreach Center. The outreach center provides a safe place where homeless veterans can receive assistance and cool down from the summer heat.

Aaron Cutrano, founder of Cutrano AZ Troop Run, Inc. is organizing the event to address the needs of homeless veterans in Phoenix. “We want to get supplies for them to stay cool and beat the heat this summer,” Cutrano said. “We are collecting water, Gatorade, clothing with 100% of all proceeds going to the Phoenix homeless veterans. After we collect the donations, we’d like to go to MANA House Veterans Outreach Center and distribute the items, with love, from our biker communities!”

All vehicles are welcome at the event. Live music will be provided by JD Madrid and breakfast will be served. Registration starts at 6 a.m. and the ride commences promptly at 8:30 a.m. Cars and trucks are also welcome. The cost is $20 per solo rider and $5 per additional passenger. The stops are as follows:

  • Lucie’s Sage & Sand Grill – 13831 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale, AZ 85307
  • Kimmyz On Greenway Rock & Roll Bar & Grill – 5930 W. Greenway Rd, Glendale, AZ 85306
  • Connolly’s Sports Grill – 2605 W. Carefree Hwy, Phoenix
  • Larry’s Cocktails – 20027 Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, AZ 85024
  • Chopper John’s – 2547 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85016
  • Lucie’s Sage & Sand Grill – 13831 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale, AZ 85307

In most years, Phoenix averages a daily maximum temperature for June between 102 and 106 degrees Fahrenheit. “We don’t need another veteran death, because they thought no one cared,” Cutrano said. “We want to show Phoenix veterans that we care and thank them for their service that ensures our freedom.”

For more information, please contact Catholic Charities at (602) 285-1999 or Cutrano AZ Troop Run, Inc. at (602) 577-9789.