In a little more than a week, Bradley Barmore will take on what may be his toughest challenge yet, riding 1,200 miles in seven days or less to raise awareness and funds for the millions of American children living without adequate footwear. Submitted photo

In a little more than a week, local fitness leader and community philanthropist Bradley Barmore will take on what may be his toughest challenge yet, riding 1,200 miles in seven days or less to raise awareness and funds for the millions of American children living without adequate footwear.

The ride, which begins May 17, is part of his Brix 4 Kix movement, an initiative focused on supporting the estimated 65% of American children who lack proper shoes.

For Barmore, this mission is personal.

In 2020, while still working in education at Sherman Central School, an interaction with a student sparked what would become a life-changing movement.

“He came into my office excited about badminton,” Barmore recalled. “And when you have a teenager excited about badminton, you jump at the opportunity.”

But something else caught his attention, the student’s shoes were completely worn out.

Barmore drove to the local Dollar General and purchased the young man a new pair of shoes. He found the student later in the morning to present the shoes. He was ecstatic.

“The smile stretched from ear to ear,” he said. “That was all the fuel I needed.”

That moment inspired Barmore and several members of the community to organize a mud run and walk fundraiser that raised more than $2,500 and collected more than 2,000 pairs of shoes in just one day.

Since then, with the support of E2M, Soles 4 Souls and countless community supporters, the movement has continued to grow. Collectively, the initiative has helped raise more than $20,000 and gather nearly 10,000 pairs of shoes for individuals and families in need.

Now, Barmore is preparing to push himself farther than ever before.

The public is invited to support the kickoff event at Tim Hortons in Brooklyn Square in Jamestown from 7-8 a.m. The first 50 attendees will receive a free cup of coffee, courtesy of Be More Fitness.

Community members are encouraged to bring lightly used shoes to donate. Organizers will also be handing out new and gently used shoes to anyone in need throughout the morning.

“If you know someone who needs shoes, tell them to come by,” Barmore said. “This is about making an impact together.”

At 8 a.m., Barmore will officially begin the journey as he heads toward Clarion, Pennsylvania escorted out of the city by the Jamestown Police Department and other community advocates, including riders from Upstate Cycles. Riders of all fitness levels are welcome to join. Some participants will ride only a few miles, while others plan to stretch the route into Sugar Grove.

Barmore hopes the event becomes bigger than just a bike ride.

“This is a chance for people to step up and step in,” he said. “One pair of shoes can change someone’s confidence, dignityand future.”

To donate, sponsor the ride, or learn more about the mission, visit bradinspires.com.