Over time, Martin has come to understand this work through what he calls a “circular economy of spirituality.” At its heart, it’s a simple idea: when we care for others, that care comes back to strengthen all of us. “The welfare of the city contributes to the welfare of the individual,” he says, paraphrasing Jeremiah 29:7.
And that’s what Out-Spok’n is all about. Riders, donors, and supporters each play a part. Some give their time and energy on the road. Others give by sponsoring a rider or making a donation. Together, those actions create something larger and more meaningful than any one person could do alone.
As Martin prepares for his final ride, he hopes that others will be inspired to do what they can. Whether that’s riding, giving or encouraging someone else, each contribution matters. Together, we can build a “city” where everyone has a place to call home.
"The welfare of the city"
Every year, Beyond Housing’s Out-Spok’n bike-a-thon brings people together to do something simple and powerful: ride and give to help create safe, affordable homes in Waterloo Region. This year’s ride takes place on Saturday, June 13th — and now is the time to get involved.
You can register to ride, sponsor a participant, or share the campaign with your network. However you choose to take part, you’re helping to build homes and strengthen our community.
Funds raised at this year’s bike-a-thon will support the next phase of Beyond Housing’s work, including plans for a new 30-unit accessible apartment building in Elmira. Every dollar raised helps keep rents affordable and ensures that more people have not just housing, but a place to feel safe and welcome.
A very special Out-Spok'n
This year’s ride carries special significance as Beyond Housing marks 25 years of building homes and supporting neighbours. Since 2009, Out-Spok’n has generated funding to help make those homes possible.
Among the riders is Martin Buhr. As our founding President, he’s been part of the bike-a-thon from the beginning. Now 87 years old, he’s preparing for his final Out-Spok’n ride.
Why Martin rides
Over the years, Martin has raised more than $387,000. This year, his goal is to reach $500,000 through this final campaign. But his participation in Out-Spok’n has always been about more than numbers.
He sees the ride as a way to take action. As he puts it, it’s “a concrete way to fight poverty in a direct, tangible way” by helping to grow the supply of affordable housing in our community, one pedal stroke at a time.