The Ride for Life began in October 1997 as an innovative and unique way to bring Bay Area motorcycle enthusiasts of all backgrounds together to raise money and awareness for people living with HIV/AIDS. That first year, just 55 bikes from all over the Bay Area helped to raise over $9,000 for Shanti services, with growth to $12,000 the subsequent year.

The Third Annual Ride for Life was taken to a higher level. On October 24, 1999 we doubled previous efforts when 150 motorcyclists rode from San Francisco to Napa Valley and raised over $29,000 for people with AIDS. The increase in participants and the inclusion of highly-recognized corporate and community support helped make this event Shanti's second-largest annual benefit, as well as a respected and new forum in fundraising.

The Fourth Annual Ride for Life on October 15, 2000 continued the trend with over 155 motorcycles and 200 participants raising over $31,000.  Coverage by television and radio news organizations introduced the Ride for Life event to a greater segment of the public.

Shanti recognizes this huge success and is focused on strengthening our visibility and outreach to the Bay Area and the State of California, much like our services. We are optimistic that this event, over the next few years, can become our signature event and the fund-raising opportunities are limitless. This is why this year's efforts are again so important to all of our sponsors.

In addition to KFOG 104.5 San Francisco/97.7 San Jose, Presenting Sponsors in 1999 were American Airlines, Q San Francisco Magazine, Spectrum, PlanetOut, and Pacific Bell Internet Services. A host of other community partners also sponsored the event, including the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, SF Bay Guardian, Imperial Court of San Francisco and Dolan Law Firm.

Now in our 5th year of Rides, we have grown to a broad base of community partners and a family of committed bikers who continue to support the event each year. We welcome you to that family.