CONGRATULATIONS, MARK & NOREEN!
After 4,100 miles, countless climbs, and two months on the TransAmerica Trail, Mark Metz and Noreen Edwards reached the East Coast, completing their Miles That Matter ride in support of the Men’s Residence at McGaw YMCA. Every mile truly mattered, and their dedication inspires us all!
Miles that Matter: A Cross-Country Bike Ride to Support YMCA Housing
For over 100 years, the McGaw YMCA Men’s Residence in Evanston, Illinois, has been a beacon of stability and hope, providing safe, affordable housing to over 150 men seeking community, support, and a place to call home.
From August 24 until mid-November, McGaw YMCA Board Chair Mark Metz and his wife, Noreen Edwards, will ride their recumbent bicycles coast to coast to raise awareness and funds for this vital resource, which is one of the last remaining Single Room Occupancy (SRO) YMCA facilities in the country.
But this is more than a ride. This is Miles that Matter—a journey powered by purpose, driven by heart, and guided by a deep belief in the importance of safe, stable housing for all.
Why They're Riding
Mark and Noreen are riding coast to coast to raise both awareness and funds for this vital resource. This cross-country bike ride serves as both a compelling awareness campaign and a fundraising effort to spotlight the urgent need for safe, supportive housing in Evanston. Every mile they ride carries the stories of the hundreds of men who have found stability, comprehensive wrap-around services, and a sense of community within the historic McGaw YMCA Men’s Residence. The ride comes at a pivotal moment: during the quiet phase of a capital campaign aimed at a transformative renovation of the Men’s Residence.
The Journey
Timeline: August – November 2025
Route: The TransAmerica Trail
Distance: 4,100 self-supported miles
Purpose: Raise awareness and support for the McGaw YMCA Men’s Residence
How You Can Get Involved
Follow Their Ride
Stay connected with Mark & Noreen’s ride by subscribing to the Miles that Matter blog at https://crazyguyonabike.com/doc/milesthatmatter for email updates, photos, and stories from the road.
Make a Donation
Every gift helps support the McGaw YMCA Men’s Residence and ensure that more individuals have access to safe and supportive housing.
Spread the Word
Help us amplify this cause. Follow their journey on Instagram @ymcamilesthatmatter for frequent photo updates. Share Mark & Noreen’s story on social media and with your networks to inspire others and build community support.
Miles that Matter Updates
McGaw YMCA invites residents to join Miles That Matter cycling challenge
Published by The Evanston RoundTable on September 25th, 2025 The McGaw YMCA invites the community to join Miles That Matter cycling challenge. From Oct. 13 to Nov. 13, participants will […]
From the Road: Miles That Matter September Update
Mark Metz and Noreen Edwards, pictured above the Grand Prismatic Spring at Yellowstone National Park, have already logged more than 1,400 of their 4,100-mile cross-country bike ride in support of […]
Evanstonians bike cross-country to support McGaw YMCA
Published by the Evanston RoundTable on August 25th, 2025 Jeff Balch The cross-country trek began on Sunday, Aug. 24 with a traditional dip of rear wheels into the Pacific Ocean. […]
Miles that Matter: A Cross-Country Bike Ride to Support YMCA Men’s Residence
Mark Metz and Noreen Edwards are riding 4,100 Miles to build support for the McGaw YMCA’s Men’s Residence housing program and upcoming renovation project. Evanston, IL — This summer, four […]
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