Cyclists take cross-country ride to raise awareness about child trafficking

A group with ties to the Susquehanna Valley is working to put a stop to it, one mile at a time.

Kevin Quinter, of Wyomissing, is an avid cyclist.

“You get out on there and only a cyclist knows that feeling after 10 minutes – you start smiling,” he said.

It's also an outlet. Quinter works in law enforcement, often breaking up human trafficking rings.

“I'm not exaggerating saying probably every hotel, good and bad, has someone probably being trafficked out of there,” he said.

When he heard about Zoe International‘s efforts to raise awareness and funds through the Race Across America, he signed up.

“Zoe International is a nonprofit that tries to defeat child trafficking globally. We're in five countries,” Brad OrtenzI, with Zoe International.

“If you can use your hobby and your passion to do great things – what a blessing,” Quinter said.

Eight riders started in California, racing non-stop across the country in six days.

It's a grueling trip.

Each cyclist is given a survivor to ride for.

“Everyone's on mission. We have the girls' names written on our arms. We're constantly remembering their stories,” Quinter said.

“Right there on our handlebars, it says, ‘Their freedom is our fuel.' So, many times you're praying that out loud and digging for strength,” said Nate Eakin, of Lititz.

The team raised a lot of money and awareness to help Zoe International's mission to stop trafficking.

“I hope that people become aware because when you have that awareness, now you're a little bit responsible to do something about it,” Eakin said.

“To rescue someone and give them the chance to be restored back to what they were designed to be, that's huge,” Quinter said.

It's an effort they believe will change lives.

The team wrapped up its 3,000-mile ride in Annapolis at the end of June, with a plan to ride again in two years.