Danny and Aaron Watt Captain Open Table’s Ride for Food

For the third consecutive year, Lexington resident Danny Watt and his 30-year-old son Aaron will be riding their tandem bike on the 25-mile route. They are co-captains of the Open Table team.

For both Danny and Aaron, who has intellectual and developmental disabilities, the ride is a way to give back to Open Table. Father and son joined Open Table’s  volunteer crew in mid-2021. Their participation at the Maynard pantry and in the Ride is an opportunity for Aaron to learn new skills and develop social ties with fellow volunteers and teammates while contributing to his community. 

Danny and Aaron hope to build on last year’s roster of 22 participants and recruit at least 30 teammates. Although each participant must raise a minimum of $350, Danny encourages everyone to aim for $1,000 or more in order to reach a  goal of $50,000.  Those who raise $1,250 receive a special Ride for Food jersey.

“We’re not asking for money; we’re inviting friends, family, neighbors and colleagues to join us in addressing the critical problem of food insecurity,” said Watt. “People will be grateful to be asked to support your dedication with a generous contribution. State your goal and share why you are participating, what Open Table means to you, and why hunger in our communities is a challenge for us all.”

Danny can provide email samples, ideas for fundraising, and training suggestions. Danny and the team are organizing recreational training rides leading up to the October event, and an Open Table “meet-up” is planned for Wednesday, August 30.

“September is a great time to get outdoors and ride. Participants choose from 25, 50, and 62 mile bike routes, or a 5K run/walk. There’s also the ‘Off the Beaten Path’ option for folks who don’t cycle or are not available on October 1,” said Watt.

Danny and Aaron make it clear: “This is absolutely not a race! It’s a wonderful way to challenge yourself, take action to solve the inequities of hunger, and raise awareness for Open Table’s mission. All who join the team can expect a friendly experience while doing good for others. Remember the Open Table motto: More Love, Less Hunger.”

To learn more, contact Danny Watt: ride@opentable.org. Join or contribute: https://www.opentable.org/ride-for-food/