Sandra Noe, executive director of Meals on Wheels, begins a positive cycle as she combines two passions, giving back to those in need and leading an active lifestyle. Noe created the Spinning Spokes Feeding Folks event in her efforts to raise money to help provide the elderly and disabled with nutritious meals.
Noe has worked with Meals on Wheels since 1986, because she loves the non-profit organization’s mission in helping people.
“I have a passion for helping those who have helped paved the way and cared for us when we were young. We should care for them as they grow older,” Noe said.
Noe’s goal in creating the event is to bring the community together while spreading awareness of the organizations services.
“The event attracts different demographics and you meet wonderful people. Someone who attends the event may go and tell their friends about it, and those friends go and tell their grandparents and then another grandparent is no longer alone. Every time we get the message out, there’s one less person who is lonely and hungry,” explained Noe.
Bicycling was the activity of choice for Noe after riding with the local group Joyriders for the past eight years.
“I used to run but I broke my ankle and it required surgery,” Noe said. “I ride about two to three times a week. I have such a healthier lifestyle now and a great community of cycling friends. I’ve seen parts of Northwest Indiana while biking that I never would have seen otherwise.”
Noe’s perseverance while riding with the Joyriders gave her the ability to reach tremendous goals after her injury.
“I’ve proven it to myself that I can do it, I rode 50 miles at a time. Nine years ago, I was afraid to get back on my bike, it’s never too late,” Noe said.
Noe describes Joyriders to be a welcoming group of friends with a philanthropist heart.
“It doesn’t matter your level of ability, they leave no one behind,” Noe said. “They teach [new riders] how to ride better and safely. They bring the joy of riding to more people in the community.”
Joyriders carry their “no one gets left behind” culture to the Spinning Spokes Feeding Folks event each year, helping riders along the trails and managing SAG stops.
“A lot of Joyriders ride and serve as mentors,” Noe said. “They assist in making sure everyone stays safe and has a good time.”
Noe’s goal for this year’s upcoming Spinning Spokes Feeding Folks event is to welcome 100 riders along for the ride, no matter what their level of ability is.
“I just love to see people come out and support Meals on Wheels and the work we do,” Noe said. “It’s not just about money, it’s letting people know we’re here. We’re getting bike riders together and making friends while contributing to a great cause at the same time.”
All participants will meet at the Trek Bicycle Store on 651 US 30 in Schererville on Sunday, June 9. Check-in is at 7 a.m. and the ride will begin at 8 a.m. For those interested in volunteering or participating in the event, tickets can be purchased for $25 online, or contact joan@mownwi.org for volunteering opportunities.