More often than not, people strive every day to put meaning and purpose behind their actions, because without purpose, there is no passion or emotional connection to anything one is doing. For Xtra Mile cyclist, Anne Marie Salvon, her passion for cycling has been reinforced by her dedication to supporting the mission of Special Olympics Massachusetts (SOMA). As an annual participant in the Connecticut Valley Century Ride (COVAC), Anne Marie joins a team that combines fundraising with community spirit and inclusion.
“I would say it's almost like a spiritual experience. It can't really be measured by the amount of miles, or even smiles. Sometimes we're in tears! It's just so revitalizing each mile, that's really beyond measure,” said Anne Marie. “And at the end, it's for a good cause, which is incredible as well. So, we're like a band of women that are out to spread the good word about raising funds and awareness for important nonprofit organizations such as SOMA.”
The “band of women” Anne Marie mentions makes up the majority of Kevin’s Krewe—a team of more than 20 riders who participate in COVAC each year. The team is named after the son of team leaders Janice and Elliot Greenberg, whose son Kevin is a Special Olympics athlete. As a seasoned member of the illustrious crew, Anne Marie recounts her journey with Kevin's Krewe and the profound impact it has had on her life. For Anne Marie, the decision to join was personal, spurred by her friendship with Janice combined with her family’s involvement with Special Olympics MA.
“In Special Olympics, our families always looked for volunteer opportunities. My daughter was affiliated with Special Olympics in college, so it was quite familiar to us,” said Anne Marie. “This being a personal ride for the Greenbergs became so much more meaningful for myself.”
Over the years, Kevin's Krewe has raised over $100,000 for Special Olympics MA, contributing to the funding of new sports, programs, uniforms, and more. The outpouring of support from friends, neighbors, and even strangers never fails to astound Anne Marie.
“It feels fantastic. It's something that you don't really think about as you're preparing for the ride, you know, the money is so important,” she said. “We've been gifted with two children who sports were so important in their lives. And to be able to bring that team spirit and ability to Special Olympics athletes is really fundamental and key.”
But beyond the dollars raised, Anne Marie and all of Kevin’s Krewe holds an even deeper impact on the organization by connecting with the athletes they ride for. Anne Marie recounted memories with athletes like Matthew Kisiel, also known as "Matty Ice," whose contagious positivity at the finish line serves as a constant source of inspiration.
“It’s an incredible sensation to come in over the finish line and see the Special Olympics athletes cheering you on and hearing their cheers and the cowbells,” she said.
Anne Marie explains that together, Kevin’s Krewe participates in COVAC not just for the thrill of the ride, but to be champions of inclusion. She recognizes the ripple effect of the team’s collective actions—beyond the ride and fundraising milestones.
“It's definitely impacted both my husband’s and my life just, you know, helping us appreciate what we have and the ability to influence,” said Anne Marie.
As a Middle School teacher, Anne Marie takes on an important role of influencing young minds about the importance of inclusion, sharing her stories and adventures on Kevin’s Krewe with her classroom.
“I'll show them pictures about myself before I start to learn about them, and I'll always put up a picture of Kevin's Krewe. I ask them if they know what Special Olympics is and what it's about,” explained Anne Marie. “So, you know, helping to influence those young minds and explaining how, ‘you too can participate.’”
This year, the Connecticut Valley Century Ride (COVAC) is taking place on Sunday, September 8th. Riders can represent Special Olympics MA as an Xtra Mile cyclist and either join Kevin’s Krewe or start up their own team! Learn more about the ride here.
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