United Against Human Trafficking was the beneficiary for RYDE"s fourth annual RYDE for a Reason fundraiser. More than 250 supporters arrived to The Astorian on September 27 for a lavish, charitable affair. RYDE co-owners Ashley Gooch, Andrew Pappas, and Lisi Garcia started the night by thanking guests for their support. After showing an upbeat video featuring RYDE instructors, the trio introduced Timeka Walker, executive director of United Against Human Trafficking, to discuss the organization's mission to end human trafficking through awareness, education, and outreach.

Throughout the party, attendees enjoyed an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, and decadent food stations donated by Wolfgang Puck Catering, and a 360 Photo Booth with views of downtown Houston in the background. The LED dance floor with beats by DJ David Gil of LG Event Entertainment & Production kept the party going into the night. No one left too hungry or too tired thanks to Whataburger, who treated the crowd to a Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit for the road. 

In addition to the silent auction at the event, RYDE hosted donation-based classes at their River Oaks studio throughout the day on Saturday. Since 2015, the cycling brand has raised over $145,000 for local charities.