The Los Angeles LGBT Center has introduced a new fundraising initiative called Center Ride Out, a three-day cycling event scheduled for April 24-26, 2026. This inaugural ride will take participants from Los Angeles to San Diego, aiming to generate critical funds for the center’s life-saving programs and services. The event marks a significant shift from the previous AIDS/LifeCycle ride that spanned from San Francisco to Los Angeles, which successfully raised over $300 million for HIV/AIDS services since its inception in 1994.
In announcing the event, Joe Hollendoner, CEO of the Los Angeles LGBT Center, remarked, “For decades, our community has come together to ride for something greater than ourselves. Center Ride Out honors a rich legacy while charting a bold path forward—celebrating our progress and recommits us to fight for health equity, compassion, and visibility for all LGBTQ+ people.”
Event Details and Experience
The ride will feature diverse routes through Southern California, starting from the heart of Los Angeles and traversing the picturesque landscapes of Riverside County before culminating in the coastal city of San Diego. The first and third days will consist of long endurance rides between 80 and 100 miles, while the second day will offer participants a “choose your own adventure” option, allowing them to select distances ranging from 20 to 100 miles.
Each day is designed to provide a unique experience, showcasing the vibrant spirit of the Southern California LGBTQ+ community. Riders will navigate through urban streets, scenic climbs, and ultimately gather at a celebratory Finish Line Festival, reflecting the diversity and endurance of the participants.
Fundraising Goals and Community Impact
Proceeds from Center Ride Out will directly support the Center’s mission to foster a world where every LGBTQ+ person can live freely and fully. This year, all participants will be required to meet a minimum fundraising goal of $2,500 by April 10, 2026. This requirement is essential for ensuring that the Center can continue to address the urgent needs of the community.
To maintain an enriching experience for riders, the inaugural event will be capped at 525 participants, with registration already reaching half of this limit. Additionally, 10 percent of net proceeds will be allocated to both the San Diego LGBT Community Center and The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, further expanding the impact of this fundraising effort.
Registration and fundraising efforts are currently open at lalgbtcenter.org/centerrideout. Here, participants can find more information about the ride and contribute to this important movement for change. The Center encourages individuals to join them in this impactful initiative, combining physical endurance with vital support for the LGBTQ+ community.
