Ride for AIDS Chicago was first conceived of in 2002 when a group of committed volunteers wanted to create a challenging cycling event that promised to return 100% of pledged dollars to charity, while still being fully supported with pit stops and gear transport. By keeping the ride small and easily manageable, the first year’s ride was a success. Over the past several years, the size of the ride has grown steadily in both participation and fundraising. 2009 was the greatest event to date with a ridership of just over 100 and $150,000 raised for charity.

In 2009 The Community Partner Program was introduced to assist organizations throughout Chicagoland raise money for HIV/AIDS services. With this program, Ride for AIDS Chicago now supports organizations and programs that serve all people in the area impacted by HIV, regardless of age, gender, race, or neighborhood. Because of its success, the Community Partner Program expanded in 2010 to include About Face Theatre, AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Better Existence with HIV, Housing Opportunities for Women, South Side Help Center, Test Positive Aware Network and Youth Outlook.

Each rider and crew member are asked to raise a minimum of $1,000 and $500 in donations respectively. Since the Ride's inception in 2004, we remain dedicated to maintaining Ride for AIDS Chicago's successful record of returning nearly 100% of donations to ride beneficiaries. To achieve this goal we rely on donations of food, water and supplies to reduce costs associated with the event. Now in its seventh year we anticipate the total amount returned to beneficiaries to reach $1 million!