On a beautiful sunny day, a group of bikers strapped on their helmets, cruised across Charlotte and gave back to their community.
You can hear the low rumble and sharp revs of motorcycle engines winding through the streets, with an end goal to donate $5,000 to four local organizations, including one school.
The Matthews Road Wolves motorcycle club hits the road to share with others by lending a helping hand during these difficult times.
“We do charity rides and then during the rides we raise money for local nonprofit organizations,” said Bobby Dendy, Matthews Road Wolves’ treasurer.
Their mission of the club is simple: to positively promote the sport of motorcycle with the support and sponsorship of charitable events and community outreach programs.
The Matthews chapter formed seven years ago. It serves as a bridge between bikers and non-bikers, allowing them to come together as one — on and off the road.
“We are all about giving back to the community,” Dendy said. “I’m one of those church-going kids and it’s all about giving back to those less fortunate than you.”
The $5,000 gift was distributed equally to Charlotte Rescue Mission, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, CMPD HOPE, and Whitewater Academy.
Many of the group’s members are former law enforcement officers, who want to improve the lives of people living in the Carolinas and help children and families in need.
“With everything that is going on right now, there is a lot of hatred toward police and not a lot of confidence in police. As retired police officers we just want to give back and help out,” said Dendy.
This gift to charities isn’t the first time the group has helped. Through their fundraising and charity drives, they have given scholarships to students with disabilities, collected coats for kids and donated school supplies.
For the members of Matthews Road Wolves, charity is important, and clearly the very strong principles and values of this brotherhood will continue to improve the lives of the communities less fortunate.
If you happen to see group of men motoring down the road with an imposing wolf insignia embroidered on their leather jacket, just know that underneath that leather vest is a heart of gold.
If you have an inspiring story to share, email Kevin Campbell, WSOC-TV/WAXN-TV/Telemundo Charlotte public affairs manager, at Kevin.Campbell@wsoctv.com.
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