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The Pi Kappa Phi brothers will participate in the 64-day Journey of Hope event hosted by their fraternity's national philanthropic organization, Push America.
"If I went back home and worked at my minimum-wage job again, I would feel like it was just a total waste," said DiGregorio, who is also a staff writer for The Hatchet's arts section. "This summer I get the chance to do something really special. When I looked at it that way, I felt that it wasn't only the right thing to do, it was really the only thing to do."
Throughout the trip, both DiGregorio and Kirby will make "friendship visits" each day to volunteers at a different centers that support those with disabilities.
"It's all about spending time with (the disabled) and trying to bring a smile to their faces," DiGregorio said. "(This) is not an everyday occurrence for some of them. To them, the cyclists become superheroes."
Additionally, they will help with events such as wheelchair basketball games and pool parties, Kirby said. The cycling teams will perform with "Kids on the Block" puppet shows for children with disabilities, as well as sing-a-longs, dinners and dances, according to the Push America Web site.
Participants in the race must raise a minimum of $5,000. Proceeds will go to various organizations that help those with disabilities.
Both cyclists rode in a six-hour bike-a-thon in Kogan Plaza April 26 to raise more money. While the two rode their bikes on stationary stands, other Pi Kappa Phi fraternity members asked for donations.
DiGregorio and Kirby have raised about $13,000 and $7,000, respectively.
Nationally, Pi Kappa Phi raises more than $500,000 through Journey of Hope. This year, 42 other Pi Kappa Phi members will race with DiGregorio and Kirby.
