News
Former Staff Member Dan Wierenga Set to Ride Around Lake Michigan in Hopes to Raise $10,000
During Mental Health Awareness Month, former Wedgwood team member Dan Wierenga is riding 1,100 miles around Lake Michigan with one goal:
To Raise $10,000 to support mental health care through Wedgwood Christian Services.
From May 13th to June 2nd, Dan is planning to ride 50 to 60 miles a day, starting and ending in Spring Lake, MI, making his way through South Haven, Chicago, Milwaukee, Mackinaw, Traverse City, and Ludington.
This is not just a personal challenge. It is a way to bring awareness and support to something that impacts nearly all of us.
Why This Ride Matters
Mental health is one of the most urgent challenges in our communities today.
More than 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experience mental illness each year. Many teens face anxiety, depression, and overwhelming stress. And yet, only about half of those who need help receive treatment.
Behind every statistic is a real person. Someone navigating fear, trauma, or loneliness.
This ride is about helping more people find care, support, and hope.
About Dan
Dan served at Wedgwood for over 22 years, followed by years in chaplaincy work in both corporate and hospital settings. Throughout his career, he has seen firsthand how real and urgent mental and emotional health care is.
Now in a new season of life, with more time and a passion for biking, Dan felt a clear nudge to do something meaningful.
So he is combining a long-time personal goal with a greater purpose by using this journey to support others.
How You Can Support the Ride
Give
Make an online donation to help Dan reach is goal of raising $10,000 for Wedgwood Christian Services!
Follow Along
Dan will be sharing updates, photos, and stories throughout the journey. Check back here for progress along the route.
Pray
Pray for safety on the road and for the individuals and families receiving care every day.
Join for a Stretch
If you live along the route, you are invited to ride alongside Dan for part of the journey. Send email to Dan at deepw@msn.com if you’d like to coordinate a stretch with him!
A Journey with Purpose
This ride is about more than miles.
It is about making sure people facing mental health challenges do not have to walk through it alone.
Every mile points toward hope.
Every gift helps make care possible.
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had. – Romans 15:1-5