How it All Started…
It all began back in 2012 when I decided to take my fundraising for Multiple Sclerosis to an entirely new level. I signed up for the Bike the US for MS where I would be cycling across the country in an effort to raise awareness for Multiple Sclerosis. I wanted to document my experience riding across the country with everyone, so I created the Phil Across America campaign.
Since 2012, Phil Across America has continued on and has continued to be an inspiration to many as well as serving as a fundraising vehicle for many deserving charities. Combining cycling around the country and guest bartending appearances we are able to raise over $20,000 annually for the charities we represent. Since 1999, when I started my MS fundraising I have raised over $350,000.
Passion for Giving Back
While my passion remains to eliminate MS and help those suffering the brutal effects of the disease, I also work tirelessly for other organizations. Another charity organization that I ride for is Anchor House, which is an example of all that is good in the world. This organization takes in runaway kids who have desperate situations at home, provides them with an opportunity to thrive and prosper into college graduates who give back to society.
I also continue to help the Kidney Foundation in memory of my father who was diagnosed with the disease. He suffered through dialysis but was fortunate enough to receive a new kidney and with that, a new lease on life. Also in support of one of my teammates at Cooper Pest Solutions, we also participate with the American Diabetes Foundation, New Jersey Chapter.
My charitable efforts don’t stop with raising money. I also serve on the Board of Directors as an Officer for EarthShare NJ, which is an organization committed to the environmental issues facing NJ. As we say at EarthShare, “One environment. One simple way to care for it.”
A Love for Cycling
Bicycling around the US remains the #1 activity each year that I participate in. My main rides are MS150 City to Shore, Anchor House Ride for Runaways and Bike the US for MS.
I first started participating in the MS150 City to Shore Ride in 1999. My wife Laura is a huge volunteer for the ride and serves as a leader on the Planning Committee. The ride is held annually in late September.
In 2012 I added Bike the US for MS to my passions. This organization, headquartered in Blacksburg, VA does a number of rides across the US with their two feature rides being the TransAm (Yorktown, VA to SanFransisco, June/July) and the Northern Tier (Bar Harbor Maine to Seattle June/July). In 2012, I rode the TransAm, 3,800 miles over 62 days with 20 other riders. In 2013 I joined the Northern Tier for 13 days in Montana, Idaho and Washington State. My love for this organization continues as I was named to its Board of Directors in 2014.
In 2013, The Anchor House Ride for Runaways came into the picture. It was always a ride I have wanted to do and I remember it from when I was a kid. The Anchor House ride, which has been happening for over 30 years, is a 7 day, 500 mile ride. In 2013 I convinced my great friend Steve Preville to join me on the ride. Besides raising money for an incredible cause, the ride itself is truly enjoyable. Of the 200 riders, over 70% of the riders return year after year, so it is like riding with the family you have not seen for an entire year.
Be a Part of the Movement
Phi Across America encompasses so many things but one thing common in all, is giving back to those in need while doing something you love.
Become a part of the Phil Across America tidal wave! We can’t accomplish all that we want by doing it alone. Your support, whether financial or time volunteered, helps give back to our community charitable organizations. So follow the events, join in one of the rides or just do your own thing to bring attention to something you are passionate about.
-Phil Cooper | CEO, Cooper Pest Solutions | Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
phil@philacrossamerica.com
