Ride For Streetlight Mission
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the purpose of Ride For The Mission?

Our primary goal is to provide food and shelter for New Jersey's homeless population.  Additionally, Streetlight Mission provides recovery programs for drug and alcohol addiction, education and housing assistance, and clothing for the area's needy. 

Please visit the Streetlight Mission website www.streetlightmission.org for more information

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Who organizes Ride For The Mission?

The ride is organized by a group of volunteer leaders with the assistance of an experienced event organizer. Streetlight Mission is recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt 501 3C organization (IRS EIN 26-2221180).

Our organizers are:

Event Director:  Sarino Tropeano

Ride Director:  Geoff Clark

Board Members:  Karen Yuschak, Paul Yuschak, Erik Johnson, Chris Trainor, Sarino Tropeano, John Impellizzeri, Dan Stoltzfus

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What percent of the money raised by the ride goes to Streetlight Mission?

100% of Ride for the Mission's revenues will be contributed directly to the Streetlight Mission.  All of the major costs of organizing the ride are offset by generous donations from our sponsors, so all funds you raise will directly help those in need.

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Where can I find more detailed information about Streetlight Mission?

Please visit the Streetlight Mission website for the full story of Streetlight Mission.  If you require information not disclosed on the website, you may contact us with your requests.

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How do I collect donations for Ride For The Mission?

Your friends and family can make donations on your behalf on the Ride for the Mission fundraising page at Active.com. All they have to do is search for your name, pledge an amount, and Active.com will ask for credit card information to complete the donation.  If someone prefers to donate via cash or check, you can submit those donations at the ride registration on June 19 when you pick up your event packet.  Our Pledge Form should be helpful in organizing your the donations you collect, and it includes instructions to make it easy for you to complete the donation to Ride for the Mission

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Where are some places to stay nearby?


Best Western Westfield Inn 435 North Ave W, Westfield, NJ  908.654.5600‎


The 1910 House Bed & Breakfast 233 Union Avenue, Scotch Plains, NJ  908.322.4514‎


CEO Suites 1812 Front Street, Scotch Plains, NJ  908.322.5566‎


Crowne Plaza Hotel Clark 36 Valley Road, Clark, NJ  732.574.0100‎


Best Western Murray Hill Inn - New Providence Hotel 535 Central Avenue, New Providence, NJ  908.665.9200‎


The Grand Summit Hotel 570 Springfield Avenue, Summit, NJ  530.328.0153‎


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What time does the Ride For The Mission start?

You may start at anytime.  However, experienced ride leaders will be leaving at scheduled intervals to help guide riders through the early miles of the ride.  We strongly recommend that you start your ride with one of these groups and travel with them for the first 15 miles or so.  Your ride leaders will have a great knowledge of the course, and riding with a larger group will increase your safety and help you have a better experience.

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100-mile Century and 62-mile Metric Century      8:00 am departures
45-mile Challenge Ride      9:00 am departure
24-mile Challenge Ride      9:00 am departure
7-mile Family Fun Ride    11:00 am departure
All rides return between 12:00 and 4:00 pm      4:00 pm SAG Support Ends

Do I have to start with everyone else?

No you do not.  You may start whenever you would like, but please understand the challenges of completing each distance and plan your day appropriately.  All services for the ride end at 4pm.

If you can make it to an aid station, let the team leader know that you need SAG support, and a ride back to the start will be arranged for you.  If you cannot reach an aid station, please call the SAG vehicle emergency phone number listed in your cue sheet.  Our course is designed so that riders can opt mid-ride to switch to a shorter distance.

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How long are the different routes, and how difficult are they?

We have 4 ride distances to choose from:

  • 100-mile Century Ride - covering mostly flat to gently rolling terrain, with one challenging climb.  Most roads are rural, with a moderate amount of suburban traffic very early and very late in the ride.
  • 62-mile Metric Century Ride - flat to gently rolling terrain.  Moderate traffic at the beginning, but most roads are rural and scenic with minimal traffic
  • 45-mile Challenge Ride - flat to gently rolling terrain with moderate suburban traffic and quiet roads through state parks and farmland
  • 25-mile Challenge Ride - gently rolling terrain with moderate suburban traffic.
  • 7-mile Family Fun Ride - quiet suburban course through scenic and historic neighborhoods.  Terrain is gently rolling with one short climb.

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Are the roads open to traffic?

Yes. The Ride For The Mission takes place on roads that are open to traffic. We have made every effort to plan a route that exposes riders to a minimum of traffic.  However, any rider participating a cycling event should be prepared to ride in traffic at times.  It is mandatory that you obey all traffic laws.  We encourage riders to ride with respect, ride defensively, and be alert and aware of your surroundings.   Whenever possible, communicate with other riders to warn each other of approaching cars or obstacles.

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Do I have to wear a helmet?

Yes!  Helmets are required.  NO EXCEPTIONS!

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What type of support do the riders receive on the ride?

SAG ("Support and Gear") service will be provided to any registered riders.  If you need roadside assistance, please call one of the cell numbers provided on your cue sheet. Please remember to provide your name, the nature of the problem, your location and your cell phone number. In the event of an emergency, dial 911!

  • Please be patient. Riders with medical issues take precedence over riders with mechanical issues or riders who are lost. Because SAG vehicles will be scattered across a very long course, you may experience a significant wait.
  • Please be courteous. If you called for SAG service but managed to resolve your problem before it arrives, please call us to cancel. Again, provide your name, location, and your cell phone number.
  • Please use SAG service responsibly. If you are unable to complete the ride due to a mechanical or physical problem, the SAG vehicle will transport you and your bike back to Evangel Church. Please do not call the SAG simply because you do not think you will finish the ride on time.
  • It is recommended that you carry cash in the event you must purchase repair parts. Our SAG vehicles are staffed by volunteers who may be able to assist with minor mechanical problems, such as flat tires or basic adjustments. While services are provided free of charge, you will be responsible for the cost of parts, such as tubes or tires.  SAG crews will be equipped to do basic repairs, but cannot perform complex procedures.  Please make sure your equipment is fully functional and in good condition prior to starting your ride.
  • A SAG crew will be stationed in the start area to address pre-ride emergencies.

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Are there rest stops along the routes?

Yes, aid stations will be positioned approximately every 20 miles along the route.  These aid stations are stocked with snacks like fruit, energy bars and pretzels as well as water and Gu2O sports drink.  Sanitation facilities will be provided or located nearby.

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Can I wear my iPod or bluetooth while I ride?

No, for your safety and the safety of your fellow participants we ask that you please do not wear any personal electronic devices.  In some municipalities along this course it is illegal to use a mobile phone while cycling.  We do recommend you carry your cell phone with you in case of emergency or if you become in need of SAG support. If you must use your cell phone we ask that you stop safely on the side of the road to do so.

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How will I know where the routes go?

When you check in at registration you can choose your route and take the corresponding cue sheet. The Course is also marked with Ride for the Mission signs and painted markings. However please use your cue sheets as your primary directions and road marking second as the road markings can be obscured by parked vehicles, etc.

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What is the terrain like?

The terrain is flat to rolling with no major hills.  The 100-mile Century Ride has one long, challenging climb.

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What is the fundraising requirement?

The fundraising minimum for Ride For The Mission is only $100.  However, prizes will be awarded to top fundraising teams and individuals, so don't stop there!  Riders collecting more than $500 in donations will receive a sharp Ride for the Mission cycling jersey to reward their efforts.

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Is the ride rain or shine?

Yes. The Ride For The Mission will take place rain or shine. However, event organizers have the power to cancel the ride in the event that dangerous conditions arise. Any decision to cancel the ride will be made at their discretion with the safety of the riders foremost. Riders must respect this decision. All riders should bring appropriate gear for all conditions.

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Will I be able to purchase a Ride For The Mission jersey prior to the ride?

Yes, you can purchase a jersey when you register online or by mail, and you can pick it up at the the registration table on the day of the ride.

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Are there activities for my friends and family at Evangel Church?

Starting at 12:00 pm, Streetlight Mission will be hosting a party for the riders and their families at Evangel Church.  There will be music and entertainment, as well as child-friendly activities.  A catered post-ride lunch will be available. Lunch is free for all volunteers and riders, and will be available to other adults at a modest price.  All children in attendance eat for free. In deference to those served by Streetlight Mission, this will be an alcohol-free event.

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