A&F Co. celebrates a long list of meaningful partnerships, from the non-profit impact partners of our annual Challenge, to organizations such as Operation Warm. Another such partnership is with Pelotonia, best described as a community of cyclists and volunteers who gather each year for a two-day ride in Columbus, Ohio. Pelotonia’s mission revolves around raising funds for cancer research at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center—the James.
Pelotonia cyclists can ride either individually or as a team. Our associates typically choose the latter, riding alongside their fellow associates ever since Team A&F Co.’s conception nine years ago. To date, our team has raised $388K. This year, the goal is to cross the $400K milestone!
“I love hearing about the direct impact this organization has in the fight against cancer, both large and small,” says Tommy Johnson from A&F Men’s Planning who, after two years as a general rider, became A&F Co.’s Team Captain in 2020. “Whether it’s seeing the newly constructed Pelotonia Research Center open on Ohio State’s West Campus or reading a ‘Pelotonia Saved My Mom’ sign, it’s great to know how immediate and local our impact is felt.”
The Pelotonia ride taking place in Columbus, Ohio, means associates of our Global Home Office (GHO) don’t have to travel far to participate. The event takes place right in their backyard—literally. Ride weekend includes several routes of different lengths and this year—for the first time—the 20-mile ride ends at GHO.
“I believe GHO is a perfect place for participants to celebrate the completion of a Pelotonia ride,” Johnson says. “It’s also a great way for the A&F Co. associate community to give back to a great cause.”
We spoke to several other associate riders, some of whom have years of rides under their belts. Husband/wife duo Austin and Mary Penrod, for example, have been riding together since 2013.
“When we started riding and becoming more involved with sharing Pelotonia’s mission, we fell in love with the organization,” they tell us. “Pushing one another is the key to our rides. We are not avid riders, but the route we choose does challenge us, and having each other side by side helps along the way.”
Austin and Mary have so strongly felt the positive impact of the ride that they’ve recruited several friends and family to participate with them over the years.
Associate Sari Schlonsky has ridden with Team A&F Co. for three out of the six years that she’s been involved with Pelotonia. She’s the team’s Merchandising Chair, helping design and produce apparel that’s sold for fundraising.
Schlonsky also designs the team jersey worn on ride day. She explains that this is one of the most rewarding parts about her work with Pelotonia. “It’s always so fun to sit in the [GHO] café and watch co-workers get excited about our merch and our cause,” Schlonsky says. “A&F Co. associates have such a passion for giving back to meaningful causes. Pelotonia fits right in.”
Each year, associates are given many on-campus opportunities, particularly in the months leading up the ride, to learn more about Pelotonia and sign up. Associate Libby Wilmer is Team A&F Co.’s Outreach Chair and explains the team’s efforts to recruit both riders and volunteers. They send out info sheets, join department meetings, organize info tables and more.
“A&F Co. has an amazing culture of community and charity,” Wilmer says. “Our values are so closely aligned with Pelotonia that it’s hard not to build each other up and celebrate each other’s accomplishments.” Wilmer adds, “We’re still looking for volunteers to ride this year!”
Team Captain Johnson’s advice for associates who want to participate but may be feeling nervous? “Talk to a former first-time rider about their experience. Or look into volunteering opportunities to see what Ride Weekend is all about. The only thing I love more than seeing first-time riders join the team is seeing them come back for a second year.”
The 2024 Pelotonia race takes place August 3 and 4 in Columbus, Ohio. Learn more about their mission and message at Pelotonia.org.
