Biking the U.S. for Clean Water
Ever have the notion to drop whatever it is your doing in life to try and support a notable cause in a foreign country? Well that is exactly what Jose Merlos is currently doing with his life.
In his late 20’s Jose realized a need for fresh water in rural areas of Africa and decided to do whatever he could to help raise money to build a fresh water well. With biking quickly growing into one of his better hobbies he decided to drop what he was doing, which included his job and current comforts of living, to bike across the country and raise money for his cause. $15,000 is his ultimate goal, which will cover the entire cost to build the well.
Starting in Seattle early summer 2011 his has made the journey through the northern U.S. states to the coast of Boston and has raised a small portion of his $15,000 goal. Biking across the U.S. for Jose has included: the many great sites he has seen in this beautiful country, sleeping in state parks and most of the time off the side of the road, meeting all the great and different people state to state, support from strangers, and much more not to mention bugs in his teeth, bike break downs, fatigue, personal injury, the hot sun, etc. All of which he has endured and experienced in order to raise money for his cause.
Jose plans to continue his trip and ultimately reach 48 of the nation’s states to help raise the necessary money. For up to date information, pictures, and ways to donate visit his site at http://josemerlos.wordpress.com/.
The Rotary Club of Carpentersville-Morning Thanks Jose for speaking to our club and as we do for all other speakers, we will donate a children’s book to the children’s section of the Dundee Township Library in his name.