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By JOYANNA LOVE/ Managing Editor

Motorcycle enthusiasts in Faith Riders of Alabama recently raised $2,000 for Jimmie Hale Mission through its Chill Billy Ride and additional donations.

Carey Waldrop of Mineral Springs Baptist Faith Riders said this was the local chapter’s first year coordinating the event, which is usually held annually and draws Faith Riders from across the region.

The ride began at Heart of Dixie Harley Davidson in Pelham and took backroads to Mineral Springs Baptist Church.

Waldrop said participation was a little lower this year, because it was 23 degrees on the day of the ride.

“It is just fun knowing you are doing something to help somebody else, ultimately we do it for the Lord,” he said.

Several of the riders volunteer at the mission on a consistent basis, providing a meal and worship service.

“Jimmie Hale Mission is a great, great ministry,” Waldrop said.

The mission, which is located in Birmingham, serves men who are struggling with addiction through a residential program.

“They are very loving, and they are very caring towards them, but they are also very strict,” Waldrop said.

In addition to being able to raise funds, Waldrop said he also enjoyed the event because of the friendships that have developed among the riders.

Faith Riders is also open to those who do not ride motorcycles.

“Our primary goal is to share the gospel,” Waldrop said. “We are a motorcycle ministry and that is the community that we primarily cater to, but we do other events as well.”

For more information on the group, contact Waldrop at faithridercarey@gmail.com or 205-389-1909. Information is also available on the Mineral Springs Baptist Faith Riders Facebook page.