Two causes, one event — that’s what participants and attendees will support should they choose to attend Join the Motorcycle Ride, a fundraiser organized by The Vine Connection Radio Network to benefit the Shepard Cancer Center and Hurricane Florence relief efforts.

“It started out with cancer awareness, but as the hurricane came, we wanted to help them too,” Vine Connection Station Manager Mae Rodgers said.

Hundreds of bikers, from as close as Washington and as far away as Virginia, will participate in the ride from Washington to Belhaven next Saturday, Oct. 6, and local riders are also invited to participate.

Riders are asked to arrive for the event at 9:30 a.m. and kickstands go up at 10:30 a.m. Departing from the parking lot of AME Zion Church, the riders will pass down Gladden Street and along the Washington waterfront under police escort. From there, riders will hit U.S. Highway 264 before passing through Bath and ultimately arriving at their destination in Belhaven.

“My vision would be for the streets to be paved to welcome the bikers,” Rodgers said. “I would love for the community to come out and welcome these riders.”

Beginning at 1 p.m., the event will continue with a gospel singing at The Creek House, located at 224 Fantasy Island Road in Belhaven.

The afternoon’s entertainment will include national gospel artists such as Tammy Edwards and the Edwards Sisters, Tommy Ellison and The Singing Stars, Deacon Edward Brown and the Singing Stars and the Spiritual Travelers.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the Shepard Cancer Center, assistance through the Department of Social Services and a disaster relief organization doing work in eastern North Carolina.

Cost to participate in the ride is $15 each and $20 for couples. Those wishing to attend performances at The Creek House can pay $15 in advance or $20 at the gate. Riders and participants alike will enjoy a day of gospel music, lunch, prizes and giveaways.

Bikers, sponsors and those wishing to participate in the fundraiser can call 252-946-1045 for more information.