Cycle to Break the Cycle

July 31, 2012

On Tuesday, July 31, Jane Doe Inc. met Alexander, a bike rider on his last leg of a 2,535 mile bike ride from Key West, Florida to Bar Harbor, Maine.  Alexander calls his charity bike ride, “Cycle-to-Break-the-Cycle,” in reference to the cycle of abuse he has become familiar with over the years. Alexander has partnered with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and next year hopes to expand his effort by connecting with local domestic violence programs around the country.

With his bike ride Alexander hopes to bring awareness to domestic violence as well as raise money to aid women and children affected by it.  He tells us he is astonished with the generosity he has experienced from complete strangers, and forever thankful for that, as his goal is to eventually raise $100,000.  In addition to the Cycle-to-Break-the-Cycle campaign which launched in 2006, Alexander frequently donates his time at domestic violence programs, giving haircuts to survivors.  In doing this he combines his talents as a hair dresser with a passion to support domestic violence survivors.

Tanaha Simon, JDI summer intern, remarked, "It was a pleasure to meet Alexander outside of our offices today.  Listening to him describe his joy in giving to those in need as well as his frustration with the still widespread misconceptions and lack of understanding of domestic violence issues, is a reminder of how one person can make a real difference."

Alexander is a great example of how men are finding creative ways to be part of the solution in ending violence against women.  Before pedaling out of town, he put on a White Ribbon pin and took the pledge card for the Massachusetts White Ribbon Campaign.

We thank Alexander for his involvement in the cause and all that he gives and wish him the best of luck as he continues up the rugged Maine coast.  Good luck Alexander!