In June of 2009, Brian McDonald, 21, a student at Christopher Newport University, and 2005 Graduate of Chantilly High School, will be meeting 90 other Pi Kappa Phi's from universities across the country and embarking on a 64-day "Journey of Hope."
The Journey of Hope is a 3,900 mile cross-country cycling trek that raises funds and awareness on behalf of people with disabilities. The team members are all members of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and are joining forces to pave the road for a better understanding of people with disabilities. From the west coast to Washington, D.C., the Journey of Hope team will be cycling from city to city, bringing the message Push America in a unique and inspiring way. Brian and the rest of the Journey of Hope 2009 team will be making dozens of presentations in communities across the nation, helping others to understand the issues facing those with disabilities. After cycling an average of 75 miles each day, the team will take part in many special events, often meeting with those for whom they're riding. The Journey of Hope is a project of Push America, which was founded by Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity in 1977 with the mission to build leaders of tomorrow by serving people with disabilities today. Its members have raised more than $8 million for Push America since its establishment. In addition to raising awareness, the Journey of Hope will raise more than $400,000 for future projects and programs of Push America. Brian is committed to raising a minimum of $5,000 on behalf of Push America and people with disabilities.
Brian is the son of Cathy McDonald of Poplar Tree in Chantilly. A senior at Christopher Newport, he is studying communications and is active in Pi Kappa Phi.
Anyone interested in making a tax-deductible donation to Push America on behalf of Brian McDonald should contact him at 703-939 0208 or bmcdonald05@gmail.com.