On Thursday, Riding 22 States in 22 Days will stop at Falconer Powersports, 1951 E. Main St., in Falconer. The event begins at 10 a.m., and kickstands go up at 11:30 a.m. P-J photo by Michael Zabrodsky

FALCONER – It’s a worthy cause.

On Thursday, Falconer Powersports, 1951 E. Main St., is partnering with Riding 22 States in 22 Days to help raise awareness for treatment of veterans and their families who confront mental issues on a daily basis.

Randy Zahm, of Falconer Powersports said Riding 22 in 22 VSA contacted him months ago about becoming a sponsor.

Zahm said Falconer Powersports is number 21 on the list. The event began in Ohio on May 22, and on consecutive days, route stops were in different states in the order of Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, and finishing the loop in Ohio.

So, Zahm said, riders will be coming in from Vermont on Wednesday, and from 5 to 8 p.m., at the VFW Post 557 in Bemus Point, there will be a bike night and community dinner. On Thursday, in Falconer at the dealership, the event begins at 10 a.m., and kickstands go up at 11:30 a.m.

“They (the riders) will be heading to Pennsylvania,” Zahm said. “What they (event organizers) intend is to have locals join in for the ride. “Whether it’s just a couple of miles or to the next city or wherever, it’s however much they want to participate in it.”

According to riding22in22vsa.com, every day, an average of 22 veterans lose their battle to suicide, leaving behind families and communities forever changed. By raising awareness and providing support through transportation, lodging, meals, and therapeutic opportunities, we help ensure veterans and their caregivers are not fighting these battles alone.

“Our mission gives hope, builds connections, and reminds those who served–and those who love them–that their lives matter and that there is a community ready to stand beside them,” the website said.

Riding 22 in 22 is also looking for volunteers.

“Every action–whether giving your time, riding with us, or contributing financially–helps us raise awareness, build community, and provide vital support for those who have sacrificed so much,” the website said.

For more information contact 716-484-0113, or email randy@falconerpowersports.com or visit riding22in22vsa.com.