A Bike Ride Across the Country to Benefit CASA of New Hampshire

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Hampshire board member Kathleen Thomas will bicycle across the country in support of CASA of NH. After dipping her bike wheel in the Pacific, Thomas will depart from Astoria, Oregon, on June 10 and plans to end by dipping her wheel in the Atlantic in Portsmouth, NH, on approximately July 22. As she rides from coast to coast, she will document her progress at www.ktacrossamerica.com.

Thomas is taking the “Portland-to-Portland route, slightly modified,” she says, which means she’ll bike a total of 3,800 miles averaging about 100 miles per day, with just four days of planned rest. Well, three days of rest, anyway – she “absolutely intends” to hike in Montana on her first day off from biking. Although considering her other hobbies include long-distance triathlons, hiking may well her version of R&R.

Thomas will climb mountains, ride through flatlands, and endure the many challenges, big and small, that come with such a long two-wheeled adventure – bad weather, flat tires, hunger, tiredness and long stretches of time alone with her thoughts (she’s riding solo with van support). Helping her with the mental aspects of the trip is her commitment to CASA of NH.

“CASA’s mission resonates with me on every level,” says Thomas. “Children in unstable homes, those who suffer abuse and neglect, need a voice – they are so isolated. I believe in CASA and the amazing volunteer advocates who represent these children – their work is critical.” Raising money for CASA along her difficult journey will also be an important motivator, she adds. “I wanted something to keep my head focused while I’m riding across the country – for when I’m tired and questioning what I’m doing. It’s important for me to realize that I may be suffering today on the bike, but that’s nothing like what these kids suffer. I have a choice, but they don’t get a choice, and I’ll take their inspiration with me.”

A celebration to welcome Thomas as she rides into Portsmouth is planned for July 22, although the date may change depending on her progress. Updates can be found at www.ktacrossamerica.com, and via CASA of NH on Facebook and Instagram.

About CASA of New Hampshire

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Hampshire provides trauma-informed, best-interests advocacy for New Hampshire children and youth who have experienced abuse and neglect by empowering a statewide network of trained volunteer advocates to speak on their behalf so they can thrive in safe, permanent homes. Since its founding in 1989, CASA of NH has advocated for nearly 12,000 children in court, giving them a chance at a better future.

In fiscal year 2023, CASA of NH guardians ad litem served 1,549 children throughout the state, collectively donating 87,585 hours and making more than 13,000 visits to children. Appointed by the court, these volunteers are everyday people who come from all backgrounds – experience in law or social work is not required. If you have the heart to help, we can teach you the rest. For anyone interested in learning more about volunteering, CASA of NH offers virtual information sessions twice a month. These are a wonderful opportunity to listen to or talk with both staff and current volunteers. Visit www.casanh.org to register for an information session or to learn more about CASA of NH.