By Seth Daniel
One Charlestown resident and Tempo Cycle are combining efforts to have two innovative fundraisers this month to benefit a jobs program for the homeless in Boston.
Anthony Toppi, a steering committee member for Project Place in the South End, kicked things off by hosting a 45-minute spin class for charity last week on May 8, and will host a second one on May 22. Tempo Cycles is at 24 Cambridge St. in Charlestown.
“We won’t be going very far in reality, but we’ll be going the distance for our fundraising,” said Sarah Argeropoulos, development manager for Project Place. “This is definitely a new thing. There are other Spin charity rides, but this is something brand new and all our own. We worked out a great partnership with Tempo Cycle. One of our steering committee members is a spinner at Tempo. She reached out to the owner and we were able to develop this great partnership. We are very excited.”
Project Place is a non-profit organization in the South End that has existed for nearly 50 years and has always served the homeless population. Recently, they have moved into jobs training program and have developed a young adult steering committee, which is where Toppi fits in.
Argeropoulos said the classes will not be rigorous, and they are relaxed so that everyone can participate.
“It’s not an advanced class or anything,” she said. ‘It’s an all-levels class so people have the option to do something physical and socialize with friends and also support Project Place – all while giving a donation to help the homeless in Boston.”
Argeropoulos said they expect to sell out for the May 22 ride, and urged everyone to get tickets now. To signed up, go online to projectplace.org/get-involved/ppys.