Frequently Asked Questions
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Registration Questions
Donation & Fundraising Questions
Event Questions
Miscellaneous Questions
Registration Questions
What is the registration fee for Project Hero Challenges?
There is a $75 registration fee for all rider types for all Project Hero Challenge events. Due to the nature of the event, registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable for any reason.
Is the registration fee refundable?
Due to the nature of the event, registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable for any reason.
What is the minimum fundraising requirement for qualification for all Challenge rider types?
The fundraising minimum to qualify for participation for all riders in Project Hero Challenges varies per event. The rider categories are below. Please check out each event's home page for fundraising specifics.
Injured, ill, and/or wounded veterans and first responders; active duty (WTB/U)
Active duty military, VA employees, non-injured veterans & first responders
Civilians/public riders
How will the selection process to participate in a Project Hero multi-day event work now?
With the new fundraising commitment, we will no longer be making selections to determine who will participate in a Challenge ride or other multi-day event if the event is not at capacity. If you register for an event and reach your required fundraising amount, you automatically qualify to participate in the event. But please note you must be ready and trained to ride the difficulty level of the event you are signing up for. You should review the event distance, elevation and difficulty level. Just make sure you reach your fundraising minimum before the commitment deadline for that event! You can find that information on each event's home page. If an event is labelled as a lottery event due to the demand and captivity, you will be entered into the lottery for the event lottery and chosen that way.
How do I fundraise?
When you register for a Challenge event, a fundraising page will automatically be created for you. A link to this page will be emailed to you in the email confirmation you receive after submitting your registration. The easiest way to fundraise is to send the link to your fundraising page to friends and family by email, text and by sharing on social media. Let them know why their donation is important (to allow you to participate in a life-changing, multi-day bike riding event that will push your physical limits in powerful ways), and ask them to support you before the fundraising deadline.
If you don’t have a link to your fundraising page, you can search for your page here [https://secure.weareprojecthero.org/site/PageServer?pagename=rider_search_page]. NOTE: you must FIRST register for an event in order to have a fundraising page.
If you need help finding your fundraising page, please reach out to us at info@weareprojecthero.org.
I don’t like asking people for donations - any suggestions?
We know that fundraising can be uncomfortable, but you’ll be surprised by how willing people are to help. The hardest part is often getting started, but once you let people know what you’re doing, they are happy to support you. Keep in mind that it takes between 3 to 5 asks for someone to remember to donate to you, so make sure you follow up!
TIP: People respond best when there is a sense of urgency. Let others know when the fundraising deadline is and that you really need their help to raise $X more to be able to participate.
Will I have a separate fundraising page for each event?
Yes, you will have a separate fundraising page for each event for which you are registered. Please make sure you share the appropriate page when raising funds to ensure you get fundraising credit for the correct event(s).
Does the registration fee count toward my fundraising total?
Yes, your registration fee to sign up for a Challenge will automatically be counted toward your fundraising total and help you reach your fundraising requirement. Note: Even though registration fees count toward fundraising totals, they are NEVER transferable.
When must the fundraising minimum be reached in order to qualify for an event?
Exact fundraising deadlines will vary per event, so please check the event page. In general, fundraising must be completed 6 weeks in advance in order to qualify for participation in a Challenge event.
What happens if I don’t meet the fundraising requirement?
If by the fundraising deadline for an event, a participant has not yet met the fundraising requirement, Project Hero will reach out to them with the choice of:
1. Paying for the difference within the allotted time frame.
2. Transferring funds to your fundraising efforts for another event within a 12 month period.
3. Transferring funds to another participant registered for the SAME Challenge event.
4. Withdrawing your registration submission and donating any funds raised to be used to support Project Hero’s greatest needs.
NOTE: These options are only available to those who respond within the timeframe allocated by Project Hero (typically 3 business days) for that event. We will make every attempt to contact you, but if there is no response by the deadline, your fundraising will be counted as a donation to Project Hero. Under no circumstances will donations be refunded.
What happens if I meet the fundraising requirement, I am selected to participate, but I am unable to attend?
Participants who are unable to attend a Challenge for any reason should let Project Hero staff know immediately at info@weareprojecthero.org. If you are cancelling before the fundraising deadline, you will have the option of transferring your funds (for you to use on another event taking place within 12 months or to another rider on the same event), or donating what you have raised to Project Hero. Since we incur costs for every anticipated rider, whether they participate or not, if you cancel AFTER the fundraising deadline (or simply do not show up), your funds raised will be considered a donation and will not be transferable. Under no circumstances will donations be refunded.
What happens if I raise more than the minimum fundraising requirement?
Way to go! Challenges are expensive events due to all the logistics and going above and beyond in fundraising helps Project Hero be able to continue to host these events. Any funds raised beyond the minimum fundraising requirement helps cover the cost of getting staff and volunteers to the event and their lodging and meals.
In most cases, funds raised beyond the requirement are non-refundable and non-transferable, but greatly appreciated and encouraged. The one exception is if you have raised more than your fundraising minimum and would like to help another rider registered for the SAME event reach their fundraising requirement, please let us know before the fundraising deadline for that event and we can transfer funds.
Will riders who register but do not meet the fundraising minimum be charged through their credit card for the remainder of their fundraising requirement?
No - we will never charge a rider to reach their fundraising minimum. Your credit card information is not stored in the system so we wouldn’t even be capable of making this charge. If you do not meet the fundraising deadline, we will reach out to you with the options listed in an above question/answer.
Why has Project Hero instituted registration fees and fundraising minimums for its events?
While we wish we could offer free registration and participation to our wounded veterans and first responders, we have made this decision to ensure funding doesn’t present an issue to hosting an event. Project Hero incurs costs to provide our participants with high-quality programming, safety, staffing, accommodations, meals, equipment and other distinct features of Project Hero events and deliver the uniquely memorable, community-building experiences that are a part the foundation of Project Hero’s mission.
While there is a fee associated with participating with multi-day events such as Challenge Rides please keep in mind that participation in our local HUBs is free and open to all. The Honor Ride events are also free to injured veterans and first responders as well.
What fundraising support will Project Hero provide for participants?
We will conduct regularly scheduled conference calls conducted by Project Hero hosted through local HUBs that will provide fundraising ideas, materials and message points for all participants. Project Hero staff will also be available on a limited, real-time basis for support.
The easiest way to fundraise is to send the link to your fundraising page to friends and family by email, text and by sharing on social media. Let them know why their donation is important (to allow you to participate in a life-changing, multi-day bike riding event that will push your physical limits in powerful ways), and ask them to support you before the fundraising deadline.
If you don’t have a link to your fundraising page, you can search for your page here [https://secure.weareprojecthero.org/site/PageServer?pagename=rider_search_page]. NOTE: you must FIRST register for an event in order to have a fundraising page.
Can HUB funds be used for rider fundraising?
While it is not encouraged, we are not prohibiting HUB funds from occasionally being allocated to individual riders. This will be approved on a case-by-case basis with a joint decision between the HUB leader and Project Hero Team. Individual riders are strongly urged to direct fundraising efforts to their individual page to reach their fundraising minimum so that HUB funds may be reserved for local HUB activities and not directed to individual riders.
How can donations be made on my behalf?
Project Hero urges riders to direct donors to their personal online fundraising page(s) on the Project Hero website. If a donor would rather donate offline, checks in support of your page may be written to Project Hero and sent to the Project Hero offices in San Diego. Please make sure the rider’s name and Challenge event is in the memo line.
Project Hero
3288 Adams Ave
Suite #16527
San Diego, CA 92176
Donation & Fundraising Questions
Where does the money go?
Registration fees cover event-related expenses and help create awareness about the need for veteran services. Additional funds raised go directly to supporting Ride 2 Recovery's veteran rehabilitation programs and allow us to continue to provide these life-changing services to our healing heroes for free. Learn more about what your support allows Ride 2 Recovery to do here.
Why is fundraising important?
There are hundreds of thousands of veterans who suffer from various wounds, whether visible or not. Ride 2 Recovery works to help these healing heroes recover and once again find hope and purpose. The funds raised through our events allow us to continue to expand our programs and serve even more veterans at no cost to them. Learn more about the impact Ride 2 Recovery's programs have had here.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. Ride 2 Recovery is a 501(c)3 corporation and all donations are tax deductible. Our tax ID number is 20-2252840.
Can I send a donation by mail?
Yes. Please send checks by mail using our offline donation form. We do not recommend sending cash through the mail as it can easily be lost. Send donations to: Project Hero - 3288 Adams Ave Suite #16527 San Diego, CA 92176
What do I do with cash I want to count toward my fundraising?
We suggest turning cash into a cashier's check to send to us by mail. We do not recommend sending cash through the mail as it can easily be lost.
Who should checks be made out to?
Please make checks out to Project Hero. A good way to make sure donations are attributed to the correct fundraising individual or team is to include the name of the person/team who should receive credit for the donation in the "note" section of the check.
What if I made a mistake with my donation?
No worries - we can help you. Please contact us.
Do you accept matching gifts?
Yes! Matching gifts are a great way to double your donation. Please ask your employer to include your name with the matching gift so that we can count it toward the correct fundraising total.
Is fundraising required?
While we do encourage everyone to fundraise, there is no fundraising requirement. Please keep in mind that even raising just a few extra dollars can make a big difference and is greatly appreciated. For tips to make fundraising easy, please visit this page.
Is there a fundraising minimum to participate?
No, fundraising is not required and there is no fundraising minimum you have to raise in order to participate. Please keep in mind that even raising just a few extra dollars can make a big difference and is greatly appreciated. For tips to make fundraising easy, please visit this page.
What happens if I don't hit my fundraising goal?
Nothing! A goal is just that - a goal. If you don't meet your fundraising goal, it doesn't matter. We love it when people aim high and are thankful for any amount you do raise. Keep in mind that you are able to change your personal and team fundraising goals at any time if you'd like.
How do I change my personal or team fundraising goal?
To change a personal or team goal, first login to your participant center. Once logged in, go to the "progress" tab. Here you will notice two options to the right, one that says "personal" and one that says "team." Click on the option that corresponds to the goal you want to change. Toward the middle of the page you will see your current goal listed. Below the goal amount it will say "My Goal (change)". Click on the word "change" and enter your new goal amount.
Note: only team captains can change the team goal.
Are there fundraising incentive prizes?
Yes, as a thank you for your work we do offer fundraising incentive prizes. For more information on the different items you could earn, please visit the incentive items page.
Do I pick up incentive items at the event?
Yes and no. At the event, you will pick up your socks that come with registration and if you reached the $250 level to earn a jersey, you will also pick that up at the event. If you reached the $500 fundraising level or higher, you will receive an email several weeks after the event with instructions on how to claim your incentive items. Please visit the incentive items page to see the items available.
Are incentive prizes cumulative?
No, they aren't cumulative. You may select a prize from the level you reach, or a combination of lower levels that total your fundraising amount, but you do not get an item from the level you hit, plus levels below.
How can I raise money?
Great question! Fundraising can be a bit daunting but getting started is often the hardest part and you'll be surprised by how generous people are. To help you out, we've put together a kit of tips and tricks to make it easier. Just remember that you are raising money for a good reason - to support life-saving veteran rehabilitation programs.
Event Questions
What is this event all about?
Read all about this event and the importance of local support on the "About" page.
I'm not an expert rider - can I still participate?
Yes! Our Honor Ride series is intended for riders of all skill levels. We recommend doing some practice rides ahead of time and choosing a course length you are comfortable with, but everyone is welcome to join us.
Do I have to have a military connection to participate?
No, public riders are welcome! While our rehabilitation programs focus on veterans, our cycling events are open to the public.
Can I pick up my packet ahead of time?
In most cases, yes, packet pick-up is available before event day. Please visit your event's home page for specific packet pick-up details.
Can I pick up my packet for other people?
Unfortunately we cannot allow this. Due to USA Cycling requirements, all riders must sign a physical waiver upon check-in and must therefore be present to pick up their packet themselves.
How long do the rides take?
The length of time to complete a ride depends on how long the ride is and how fast you go. If you are in good shape and choose the shortest course, you may finish in about an hour. Longer rides can take up to 5-6 hours to complete.
Do you close the roads for the Honor Ride Events?
Most Honor Rides do not have road closures. Project Hero will always ensure that routes are safe and police or other motor escorts are provided through heavily trafficked areas when possible. This varies by ride. ALL RIDES ARE RULES OF THE ROAD.
Is there SAG support?
Yes, SAG support is provided and rest stops are stocked with water, fruit and nutrition bars. Some rest stops will have mechanics, depending on the ride and the route.
Are helmets required?
Yes! For the safety of all riders, helmets are required at all times while on the course.
Do I have to bring my own bike?
Yes, please bring your own bike. We do not require a pre-ride bike inspection but expect that all bikes are in working order and helmets must be worn at all times.
Can my child ride in a child seat on my bike?
Yes. Children are allowed to ride in a proper bike seat of an adult rider's bike or on a tandem bike with an adult. Remember, helmets are required for all ages.
Do I have to register a child who will ride with me in a bike seat or on a tandem bike?
Yes. For liability reasons everyone who will be participating on the course needs to complete registration. A child who is riding with you in either a bike seat or a tandem bike does not need to pay for registration. Please contact us to register your child for free.
Can I register at the event or do I have to register ahead of time?
In most cases, day-of registration is allowed. We do encourage you to register online ahead of time, though. Day of registration costs slightly more. Please visit the event home page for details about day-of registration.
Are dogs allowed at the event?
Most venues are dog-friendly and service dogs are always allowed. For the safety of everyone, we do not allow dogs on the course. If you are riding we recommend that you do not bring your dog since you will be gone for a couple of hours.
Miscellaneous Questions
Do you sell Project Hero cycling gear?
Yes! Please visit the online store to see the variety of merchandise available for purchase.
Do you sell merchandise at the rides?
Yes, we sell Project Hero jerseys and other apparel at almost all Honor Rides (if there will not be onsite registration then we will not be selling merchandise). All apparel can also be pre-ordered and picked-up the day of the ride (please order at least 4-5 weeks before event date to ensure arrival). Please visit the online store to see the variety of merchandise available for purchase.
How do I volunteer?
We are always looking for individuals to help before, during and after each ride. If you want to be part of the fun in a way other than biking then join us as a volunteer. Please visit the volunteer page to sign up
If we are part of the same team, do we have to ride together?
No, being on a team does not mean you have to ride together. The purpose of forming a team is so that you can easily invite others to register with you and so that all your fundraising efforts are joined together in one common team effort. You are welcome to ride at your own pace.
I was unable to attend the event. Can you mail me my packet or socks?
In order to keep costs low, we cannot mail packets or socks to participants. If you know you won't be able to attend and have someone else who can pick up your packet for you, contact us to arrange this.
Do you provide route maps?
We provide route maps at registration and routes (maps) can also be found on the ride home page. You can download the route to your GPS service from the link.
What is the participant center?
The participant center is an online tool meant to help with your fundraising. When you access your participant center, you can edit your personal page (and team page if you are a team captain), see information about your fundraising progress, upload your email contacts and use email templates we've created to send to friends, family and coworkers. Login to your participant center here.
How do I find my personal or team page?
When you register, you automatically are given a personal page (and if you start a team a team page is created as well). To search for a page, click here.
How do I edit my personal or team page?
You can change the text and picture on both your personal and team pages through the participant center. Click here to login to your participant center. Note: only team captain can edit the team page.
I forgot my username and/or password - what do I do?
Start by using the "Login Assistance" links at the right of this page. If you're still having trouble, please contact us and we would be happy to help.
What happens if it rains on event day?
We hold our events rain or shine. Be sure to pack gear appropriate for the weather. In the case of thunderstorms and severe weather, we will make a decision based on the circumstances and let you know.
Why have I not received any emails about the event?
Our emails may be going into your spam folder or you may have opted out of emails. Please check your spam or junk folder and if our emails are there, be sure to add us to your "safe senders" list and mark that the email is not spam. If you opted out of Ride 2 Recovery emails, you will not get important event-specific information. For additional assistance and to be sure you are opted in to our emails, please contact us.
I have a special need - can you accommodate me?
Yes! All of our events are wheel-chair accessible and set up to accommodate all types of participants. If you would like to discuss a specific need with us, please contact us and we will do everything possible to make sure you are comfortable.
I was unable to attend the event. Can I be refunded?
Unfortunately we are unable to refund registration fees.
What happens if the event falls on a holiday?
Our top goal is to honor our healing heroes and raise funds to support our rehabilitation programs to be able to serve more wounded veterans. We apologize in advance if an event takes place during a holiday. We do our best to avoid holidays, but cities have limited options of when and where an event can be held. Our events are held in many cities throughout the nation and we have to balance the needs of a particular city, as well as manage our national schedule. We thank you in advance for your support and appreciate your understanding.
Why are there multiple pending charges on my bank account or credit card statement?
This can happen if the "confirm" button was clicked more than once during registration. The bank will recognize that these are repeat charges and will only process it one time It sometimes takes the bank several days to clear the extra pending transactions. If you call your bank they should be able to tell the amount that will actually go through. If you have any questions or if more than one charge is actually processed (not pending, but confirmed), please contact us right away.