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Retired officer embarks on 1,000-mile bicycle journey to support nonprofit foundation

Robert Howie, 55, began his journey from Ocala to Key West and back on Feb. 12, aiming to complete the trip by February 28; he plans to cover 100 miles per day

Retired officer embarks on 1,000-mile bicycle journey to support nonprofit foundation

“I had no idea about everything they do for their community,” he said. “It’s been a real joy to learn about their initiatives.”

ARC Marion

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A retired Marion County deputy has set out on a 1,000-mile bike ride to raise funds for ARC Marion, a nonprofit supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, WCJB reported.

Robert Howie, 55, began his journey from Ocala to Key West and back on Feb. 12, aiming to complete the trip by Feb. 28, according to the report. He plans to cover 100 miles per day, with community donations helping to cover lodging costs along the route.

Howie, who previously completed a similar ride, decided to take on this challenge after learning about ARC Marion’s work, according to the report.

“I had no idea about everything they do for their community,” he said. “It’s been a real joy to learn about their initiatives.”

So far, he has raised $16,000 from over 70 sponsors and hopes to double that amount by the end of his ride, according to the report. The funds will help ARC Marion address an annual budget shortfall of more than $4,000.

“I’m happy that he is going on this journey and hope he has a safe trip there and back…It’s cool because, in a way, he is helping to keep the program open so we can paint, dance, sing, and do other crafts,” ARC member Mary told WCJB.

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Joanna Putman is an Associate Editor and newswriter at Police1, where she has been covering law enforcement topics since August 2023. Based in Orlando, Florida, she holds a journalism degree from the University of Florida and spent two years working in nonprofit local newsrooms, gaining experience in community-focused reporting. Married to a law enforcement officer, she works hard to highlight the challenges and triumphs of those who serve and protect. Have a news tip? Email her at news@lexipol.com