The man at the wheel of the Ride Don't Hide youth mental health fundraiser in the North Okanagan will saddle up and join 2025 participants.

Vernon's Michael Schratter will take part in the annual event he founded Sunday, June 8, at Creekside Park in Coldstream.

"I'm coming back to my hometown and I'm excited to take part in Ride Don't Hide. I hope to see you there,鈥� said Schratter.

It was 15 years ago 鈥� Aug. 1, 2010 鈥� that Schratter began a solo cycling journey around the world to challenge the stigma surrounding mental illness. Living with bipolar disorder himself, he pedalled across six continents and 33 countries, covering more than 40,000 kilometres. His journey, called Ride Don鈥檛 Hide, raised more than $100,000 for the Canadian Mental Health Association's (CMHA) B.C. division and sparked a global conversation about mental health.

His ride became the foundation for a national movement and in 2012, CMHA B.C. launched Ride Don鈥檛 Hide community rides, which quickly grew to include thousands of participants across Canada.

Today, CMHA's Ride Don't Hide has raised more than $11 million for local mental health programs, helping thousands of Canadians across the country.

Schratter continues to advocate for open, honest conversations about mental health, believing that sharing personal stories is key to breaking down stigma.

鈥淲e are honoured that Michael will join us for the local Ride Don鈥檛 Hide, especially because Vernon is his hometown," said Julia Payson, CMHA Vernon and District executive director. "He is truly an inspiration, and his message of resilience and hope resonates with so many people.鈥� 

Funds raised at the Coldstream event will go to CMHA Vernon's Youth Integrated Services Hub, which provides wellness programs, counselling, peer support, socials and other vital resources for youth.

Registration for Ride Don鈥檛 Hide is just $55 per person and kids under 12 ride for free. Community members can register an individual or as a team. The Galbraith Family Foundation is once again providing a matching opportunity for funds raised in the Vernon area.

Cyclists and non-cyclists can take part in the event which features five routes ranging from 2.6 to 32 kilometres. You can ride or walk as an individual or as part of a team.

Ride Don鈥檛 Hide will also include booths promoting local organizations, kids鈥� activities and a barbecue for participants. Registration for the CMHA Vernon Ride Don鈥檛 Hide is underway at .