Bridges Healthcare will celebrate 35 years of bringing the community together to support mental health and addiction recovery when its Folks on Spokes & Step Forward Ride + Walk returns to Fowler Fields in downtown Milford on Sunday, Oct. 4, at 8 a.m.
As one of the longest running charity rides in Connecticut, this event attracts hundreds of cyclists, walkers and families to raise funds and awareness for mental health and addiction recovery services that change lives and help build a healthier future for our community.
“We’re very proud and excited to celebrate 35 years of the community coming together to raise awareness and critical funds for mental health and recovery,” says Jennifer Fiorillo, Bridges CEO and President. “Participants at Folks on Spokes & Step Forward ride and walk demonstrates the commitment to ending the silence and stigma that often surrounds mental illness, suicide, and addiction. Together we can create a community where no one has to face these challenges alone.”
Experienced and new cyclists of all ages can choose from 5, 10, 20 or 40 mile routes and walkers can take part in the 5K —all are along the scenic Connecticut shoreline. Participants can ride or walk individually or as a team and fundraising is encouraged. Registration is free for anyone who commits to raising $100 by October 4, 2026.
In addition to the ride and walk, the event also features:
~~ A Remembrance Ceremony honoring lives lost to suicide, addiction and overdose while supporting those continuing their journeys of recovery.
~~ Fully supported Rest Stops along the routes.
~~ A commemorative T-shirt for all registered participants.
~~ Music, food, kids’ activities, and family-friendly entertainment.
~~ Opportunities to connect with local mental health advocates.
Registration is open online through October 1, 2026. Fees are $50 per cyclist, $35 per walker, $15 for youth under 18, and children 6 and under are free. Registration will also be available day-of at an increased rate.
Hundreds of participants and volunteers are expected to take part in this year’s event with the fundraising goal of $50,000. Proceeds will support Bridges’ programs and services that help adults, children and families move toward healing, recovery, and renewal. Last year, Bridges served nearly 9,000 individuals through outpatient, in-home, community outreach and coordinated prevention efforts.
The event’s major sponsors are The Milford Bank and NFP.
To register, sponsor the event, volunteer, or learn more, visit https://bit.ly/BridgesRideWalk2026.
Bridges is the local mental health authority for Milford, Orange, West Haven, and the surrounding communities, offering over twenty unique mental health and addiction recovery programs for children, families, adults, and young adults. Bridges’ recovery-focused services support individuals with severe and prolonged mental illness, addiction problems, as well as emotional and behavioral issues.
For more information about Bridges’ programs and services, visit bridgesct.org.