150 runners, $12,000, and 308 bikes in Vietnam

On the morning of June 27, about 150 runners took off into the woods to tackle Milton High's cross country course, and turned it into more than $12,000 for two local nonprofits. It was the team captains' first-ever fundraiser, and it felt like the whole town showed up: parents cheering the final stretch, dogs in costumes, kids from neighboring schools signing up to help.

The proceeds split between the Pedal Forward Foundation and Stella Love, a free pantry that will use its share to stay stocked through the high-demand summer and expand its programming for kids. Pedal Forward was founded last year by team captain Jonathan Thai. Two days before the run, he and 10 partners were in Vietnam handing 308 bikes to children across four provinces.

"I'm just so glad that everyone has come out to support these nonprofits today," Thai said. "It's really great that we were able to get the community together." Closer to home, Pedal Forward gives free bike lessons and gear to underserved kids, so this one morning means more local children can ride for free.