ALTUS—Thirty-two college students will arrive in Altus today, July 12, as part of a cross-country bike trip to raise awareness about the need for affordable housing and to help provide it. Altus is just one of the stops on Bike & Build’s Southern US 2009 tour, which will total 3,510 miles by the time the 32 young adults reach San Francisco, Calif. on Aug. 14.

Bike & Build raises funds and awareness for affordable housing projects as cyclists make their way across the country. Along the Southern US tour, the group will stop in six cities to build homes with local housing organizations. After six seasons of the charitable program, Bike & Build has contributed $1.6 million to housing groups to fund projects planned and executed by the young adults making the cross-country journey.

The Southern US 2009 tour began in Jacksonville, Fla., on June 10 and has raised $148,688 for affordable housing builds so far. By the time the tour reaches Altus the group will have biked 1,574 miles.

Bike & Build was founded in 2002 by Marc Bush. More than 550 riders have participated since the organization was created and can now choose between eight routes across the country. The Southern US route makes its way through Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Nevada and California.

When the group hits Altus, it will be day 33 of 6with 1,564 / 3,662 miles completed.

To learn more about Bike & Build, visit http://www.bikeandbuild.org.

Bike & Build is pedaling to end poverty housing. Through fund-raising cycling trips, Bike & Build raises money for and awareness of affordable housing efforts. Our events act as a catalyst to build homes, foster the spirit of service, and empower young adults...mile by mile, house by house.