By Shannon Lukens. cOURTESY PHOTOS
The 24-hour ‘Boat Cruise raised $75,646 for Early Childhood Education. It was the 9th year for the annual event, hosted by Integrated Community. Cyclists rode 1,690 miles over 147 laps during a 24-hour period.
Team YVB, as in Yampa Valley Bank, set a new record, raising over $20,616, which is the most ever raised by any team. Over 400 people from the community joined to support Integrated Community on the first lap.
Courtesy photos
Press Release from Integrated Community; August 17, 2025.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 16, 2025; Steamboat Springs, CO
24-Hour ‘Boat Cruise Raises $75,646 for Early Childhood Education
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO – The 9th annual 24-Hour ‘Boat Cruise concluded today with unprecedented success, raising an impressive $75,646 for Integrated Community’s early childhood education programs. The event, which took place August 15-16 under the theme “United Toons, Never Marooned!” saw participants cycling a combined total of 1,690.5 miles over 147 laps during the 24-hour period.
“We are overwhelmed by the community’s generosity and support,” said Jerry Hernandez, Executive Director of Integrated Community. “These funds will directly impact our ability to provide crucial educational resources and programs to immigrant children across Routt and Moffat counties.”
Historic Fundraising Achievement
In a remarkable display of commitment to community service, Team YVB – TOUR DE HAS BEENS, led by PJ Wharton, set a new record by raising $20,616—the most ever raised by any team in the event’s history. This achievement was especially poignant as it marked Wharton’s final year participating in the ‘Boat Cruise.
“PJ Wharton and Yampa Valley Bank have been the backbone of this event as our Legacy Sponsor for years,” said Hernandez. “Their dedication to supporting early childhood education has transformed countless lives in our community. To see them conclude their ‘Boat Cruise journey by setting this incredible fundraising record speaks volumes about their commitment to making a difference.”
Notable Achievements
Other notable achievements from the event include:
- Most laps by an individual: 18 laps by Wyatt Clay of team Woogity Woogity (a new event record)
- Most laps by a team: 62 laps from team Woogity Woogity
- Most money raised by a youth team: $10,456 by PEDAL TO THE METAL
- Most laps by a youth team: 44 laps by PEDAL TO THE METAL
Community Impact
The funds raised will support Integrated Community’s vital educational programs, including reading initiatives across Routt and Moffat counties, educational supplies for families, direct education support, and resources to hire trained personnel to expand their reach.
“What makes this event special is how it brings together businesses, families, and individuals from all walks of life,” said Deputy Director Vicki Hagen. “From our youngest riders to our most experienced cyclists, everyone pedaled with purpose, embodying our theme of unity and community support.”
Gratitude to Sponsors and Participants
The event was made possible through the support of numerous sponsors who provided everything from refreshments to prizes. Honey Stinger, Rex’s Family of Restaurants, Storm Peak Brewing Company, Mountain and Company, Off The Beaten Path, CHFA, F.M. Light and Sons, SteamBoat Resort, Ski Haus, Steamboat WinterWondergrass, The Cycle Effect, The Colorado Trust, Corona Construction, Welcoming America, Garcia Construction, UCHealth, Ohana, Old Town Hot Springs, Storm Mountain Roofing, Routt Electric, Sundog Steamboat, and th un e Boat Latin Market.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to all our sponsors, volunteers, and participants who made this year’s event such a tremendous success,” said Hernandez. “Special thanks to Yampa Valley Bank for their unwavering support as our Legacy Sponsor throughout the years.”
Still Time to Donate
The event may have concluded, but the opportunity to support early childhood education continues. Those wishing to contribute can still donate by:
- Visiting our event website at https://charity.pledgeit.org/24hourboatcruise
- Using VENMO @Integrated-Community (please mention “Boat Cruise” in the note)
- Or bringing a cash or check to our office when normal hours resume on Tuesday Aug 19th.
Every donation, regardless of size, helps us continue providing vital educational resources to children in our community.
Looking Ahead
Planning is already underway for next year’s 10th anniversary event, which promises to be bigger and better than ever. Details will be announced in early 2026.
For more information about Integrated Community and its programs, visit www.ciiccolorado.org.
Contact:
Jerry Hernandez
Executive Director, Integrated Community
director@ciic.org