The Los Angeles LGBT Center has unveiled its new initiative, Center Ride Out, a three-day cycling fundraiser scheduled for April 24-26, 2026. This inaugural event will take participants on a scenic journey from Los Angeles to San Diego, aiming to raise funds for the Center’s essential programs and services that support the LGBTQ+ community.
Replacing the long-standing AIDS/LifeCycle ride, which has generated over $300 million for HIV/AIDS services since 1994, Center Ride Out seeks to honor this legacy while forging a new path forward. Joe Hollendoner, CEO of the Los Angeles LGBT Center, expressed the significance of the event, stating, “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.”
The ride will take cyclists through some of Southern California’s most picturesque landscapes. Day 1 and Day 3 will feature long endurance rides spanning 80-100 miles, while Day 2 offers a flexible itinerary with choices ranging from 20 to 100 miles. Each day promises a unique experience, showcasing everything from urban environments to scenic hills, culminating with a celebratory Finish Line Festival. This diverse route reflects the strength and spirit of the Southern California LGBTQ+ community.
Proceeds from Center Ride Out will directly support the Center’s mission to foster an environment where every LGBTQ+ individual can live freely and authentically. To participate, cyclists must meet a minimum fundraising requirement of $2,500 by April 10, 2026. This ensures that the Center can continue addressing the pressing needs of the community.
To maintain the quality and impact of the inaugural ride, registration is limited to 525 participants, with current enrollment already reaching 50% of this cap. In addition to benefiting the Los Angeles LGBT Center, 10 percent of net proceeds will be allocated to the San Diego LGBT Community Center and the LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert.
Registration and fundraising efforts are now underway at lalgbtcenter.org/centerrideout. Here, participants can learn more about the ride and contribute to this movement for change, ensuring that the legacy of community support continues to thrive.
