There are two stories I would like to share: First, the story of the Lutheran Community Services Northwest Sexual Assault & Family Trauma (SAFeT) Response Center. And second, the story of my friend, Matthew Harker.

Lutheran Community Services Northwest is my employer here in Seattle, WA. We are a social services agency providing a variety of human services throughout the Northwest, with a mission of partnering with individuals, families and communities for health, justice and hope. Our SAFeT Response Center in Spokane offers counseling services, and medical & legal advocacy for victims of trauma & abuse, many of them children. Recently our program has been expanded to also provide services to victims of human trafficking. We staff a 24-hour crisis line, and also provide education & prevention services for the community. The men, women and families that seek support from our Spokane office have survived terrifying experiences. They are brave, resilient and inspiring, and I am proud to support them by participating as a pledge rider in the 8 Lakes Ride.

Matthew Harker was a friend and classmate during my graduate studies at the Thunderbird School of Global Management. He was tragically killed after being struck by a vehicle while riding his bike to work on May 29, 2014 in Casper, WY. Matt was a husband and father of 3, and one of the kindest, most thoughtful people I've had the pleasure of knowing in my life. He was a friend and role model to many, and is gone from our lives far too soon. Having never ridden in an official bike ride before (and having not even ridden a bike in years), I've decided to ride this year in our 8 Lakes Bike Ride, and complete the 30-mile course as a tribute to Matt.

Friends and family, I hope you'll support me in this endeavor. Your pledge/gift will not only bring hope and healing to victims of violence and trauma, but will be a very meaningful gesture in memory of a great man and great friend.

Thank you so much for your support!