CHAFE 150: Pedaling Toward Literacy

Photo Courtesy of Chafe 150

Cyclists, community, and a cause that changes lives

By Angel Dwyer

“Give a kid a book, and you change the world. In a way, even the universe.” –Neil deGrasse Tyson

Originally inspired by Brad Williams, a Libby, Montanian native and long-time Sandpoint resident, one local nonprofit has truly taken Tyson’s sentiment to heart. The CHAFE 150 Gran Fondo, which began in 2008 as a fundraiser for Ready for Kindergarten, an early childhood literacy program of the Panhandle Alliance for Education, is a road and gravel bike ride that crosses over Idaho and Montana state lines in honor of Brad Williams own journey between the two. Over the years, it has evolved from approximately 70 riders on the original 150-road ride route to now boasting an average of 500 riders yearly, each participating in numerous road and gravel routes. It has now become a central annual event in our community.

In early summer, cyclists mount up and swarm the streets and traverse through breathtaking, mountainous landscapes all the way between Sandpoint, Idaho, through Troy, Montana, bringing awareness to the need for educational support to our communities, and over the course of time has raised over $1 million in support of our local education. The CHAFE 150, which stands for Cycle Hard for Education (and is a fitting double-entendre for participants!), was initially conceived by Brad Williams as a means to combine his love for cycling with his passion for philanthropy with a goal to improve educational opportunities in our region. The race has grown steadily over the years, drawing professional and amateur riders, all united by a common mission–improving literacy for local youth.

In 2013, the Sandpoint Rotary Club took over the ride and continues championing Brad Williams’ original cause. The Rotary Club of Sandpoint is a member of Rotary International, a group of over 1.4 million people across the globe that are bound together by the common idea of “Service Above Self.” The club’s involvement has brought a higher level of organization, fundraising, and outreach, allowing them the ability to fund a greater amount of projects and reach more students. These initiatives have included after-school reading programs, specialized programs for students on the autism spectrum, and partnerships with Book Trust, which helps provide books to children in need. The ride also benefits a multitude of other youth programs in our area, such as scholarships and leadership development for our high school students.

Research has proven that early childhood literacy is key to long-term academic success. Because of the direct support of our vibrant community through fundraisers like the CHAFE 150, Lake Pend Oreille School District (LPOSD) students have far exceeded the national average for reading scores, a clear example of the effectiveness and enduring impact the CHAFE 150 has had on our school district. This upcoming June 14th, the CHAFE 150’s 17th annual ride will benefit LPOSD’s new initiative, “Every Student Graduates a Reader.” This program uses a comprehensive approach to ensure children attain their highest reading potential, focusing on a blend of early intervention and individualized learning. Mel Dick, a coordinator for the CHAFE 150 and Sandpoint Rotarian, shares about the initiative: “Beginning with fall literacy screenings, those found to need extra support undergo diagnostic assessments to pinpoint specific areas for improvement. Teachers are trained in evidence-based practices such as phonics and comprehension, ensuring they can provide effective reading instruction. This layered strategy helps all students, not just those struggling with reading, and sets them on a path toward academic success and future readiness.” The program also emphasizes parental involvement, providing families with resources to support learning at home. This holistic approach helps students achieve better academic outcomes, fostering a culture of literacy and lifelong learning.

Testimonials from several local young students showcase the impact that these literacy programs have had in our area and how they will help them succeed in their future academics:

“Now I can read like the other kids in my class.” (3rd grader)

“In fifth grade, I didn’t understand how to read, and I didn’t like to try. Now that I have learned Vowel Town and the special spelling rules, I like to read. I am paying more attention now and not getting sidetracked because I couldn’t follow along. I even like coming to school now!” (6th Grader)

“In younger grades, I really didn’t like reading because it was hard. Now that I have learned the sounds of Vowel Town, I feel good about my reading. I have learned blends, beginning/middle/ending sounds, and even tricky endings like -tion. These are things I didn’t know before Pathways.” (6th grader)

“I am taking the skills that I have learned and am applying them in my other classes. I am now comfortable reading out loud off the board in class.” (8th grader)

“I am able to slow down and understand more of what I read. I’m not rushing through like I used to do.” (8th grader)

These testimonials are powerful examples of how early intervention and a strong literacy foundation can positively affect a child’s educational journey. Beyond academic achievements, these programs help students build confidence and self-esteem, which are critical elements to nurturing academic potential. The direct link between the CHAFE 150 fundraising efforts and these stories highlights the tangible benefits of community involvement. It is inspiring to see that, year after year, our local youth are gaining the skills and confidence they need to excel in the classroom and beyond.

The CHAFE 150 has over six routes of different lengths on roads and gravel, including a Family Fun Ride, with three starting locations, four different start times, and seven rest stops along the way. Whether you are a hard-core rider or casually coasting on an e-bike, the ride provides an accessible route for all levels of experience. The range of route options ensures that cyclists of every skill level can participate, making it an inclusive event for riders and families alike. From the scenic roads that wind through the mountains to the challenging gravel sections, the CHAFE 150 showcases the natural beauty of Northern Idaho and Western Montana. The ride’s starting locations in Sandpoint, Clark Fork, and Troy allow for diverse route choices, giving participants the chance to choose their challenge. The addition of the Family Fun Ride is especially important, as it encourages young families to get involved in the event, promoting a culture of fitness and philanthropic engagement in future generations.

An after-party at City Beach Park in Sandpoint is open to the entire community, rider or not, and features food, a beer and wine garden, and activities for children. This celebration is a fun way for the whole community to come together after the ride, whether they’ve been pedaling or cheering from the sidelines. “Support for the ride over the years has been outstanding,” says Mel, noting that this year’s event has over 115 sponsors and 120 volunteers. The generous contributions from local businesses, organizations, and volunteers help ensure the event’s success year after year. The event's ever-growing popularity means there are always opportunities to get involved, either by riding, volunteering, or offering financial support to keep the race alive and its positive impact on education.

Volunteers play a key role in making the event run smoothly, assisting with registration, manning rest stops, and helping with logistics. For anyone who wants to get involved, there are multiple ways to contribute, from signing up as a rider to donating to the cause or helping organize the event. Every contribution, big or small, plays a role in ensuring that students in the Lake Pend Oreille School District have the resources they need to continue to top the national reading charts.

“The ride has made a difference in the lives of thousands of students over the years,” Mel says, and there is certainly no end to that road in sight, so saddle up and get involved!

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