Pedaling to make change
Pedal to the Rescue is a nonprofit on a mission to support the heroes fighting LA’s wildfires. In the summer of 2025, Michael “Mikey” VanSuilichem and Thomas “Tommy” Gehl II will embark on an epic bike journey across the country to raise awareness—and funds—for the LA Fire Department Foundation through their dedicated GoFundMe campaign.
Pedal to the Rescue’s Tommy and Mikey embark on a cross-country quest to raise awareness for LA wildfires and the heroic work of firefighters—you can help by donating today.
LA Wildfires: A Crisis That Called Us to Ride
In January 2025, devastating wildfires ravaged Los Angeles, destroying thousands of homes, displacing families, and claiming lives. Fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds and record drought, these fires became the most expensive in U.S. history. Now more than ever, support for our firefighters is vital. Pedal to the Rescue rides to honor their bravery and help fund their fight.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) continues to face significant challenges, including a 55% increase in 911 call volume since 2010 and a reduction of 68 firefighters due to budget cuts. In 2023, the LAFD managed over 500,000 calls, with 80% for emergency medical issues. Dispatchers often rely on caller descriptions, which can lead to the misallocation of resources. To address these challenges, the LAFD proposes integrating video-aided dispatching technology to enhance the accuracy of dispatching appropriate resources, improving response times and public safety. The total cost for this initiative is $400,000. LAFD Foundation
Additionally, the LAFD has launched Advanced Provider Response Units (APRUs) to address the high number of low-acuity patients who unnecessarily crowd emergency rooms. Each unit pairs a paramedic with a nurse practitioner to provide on-site care and reduce hospital transports. This program has significantly decreased ER congestion, improved patient outcomes, and lowered healthcare costs. The total cost for medical equipment and medications for this initiative is $60,000. LAFD Foundation
By donating through our links, your contributions will directly support the LAFD’s efforts to implement these critical initiatives and provide essential resources for our firefighters. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who risk their own to protect ours.
Our overall goal is to raise at least $50,000 for the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, while also completing the 2,400 mile ride in about three months. We would love to rally as many people behind this as we can, so please, spread the word! – Pedal to the Rescue
Pedal to the Rescue: Two Friends, One Mission, Thousands of Miles
In the summer of 2025, lifelong friends Mikey Vansuilichem and Tommy Gehl II set off from Grand Rapids, Michigan on a cross-country cycling adventure to Los Angeles, California. Their mission? To raise awareness for the devastating impact of LA wildfires and rally support for the firefighters who risk everything to protect lives and land. Through their GoFundMe, every dollar raised goes straight to the LA Fire Department Foundation—fueling the fight, one mile at a time.
Who’s Riding
This summer, Pedal to the Rescue takes off with Michael “Mikey” Vansuilichem and Thomas “Tommy” Gehl II—two friends on a mission with pedals and purpose. Their cross-country bike adventure will raise awareness for LA’s devastating wildfires, and all funds raised through their GoFundMe go directly to the LA Fire Department Foundation. No detours, no shortcuts—just heart and hustle.
Why we Ride
Tommy and Mikey aren’t just biking for the thrill (though the hills will be brutal). They’re riding to honor the courage of LA’s firefighters and shine a light on the wildfires that have scorched lives, homes, and hope. This journey is about more than miles—it’s about giving back to the everyday heroes who run into the fire when others run out.
Routes & Dates
Starting in Grand Rapids, Michigan, these two will pedal their way across the heart of America, destination: Los Angeles, California. The journey kicks off in Summer 2025.
Check out the Mid USA Route Map for a general idea of the path—it’s flexible, just like any good road trip should be.
OUR SERVICES
INSPIRED BY STORIES, DRIVEN BY MISSION.
Whether you’re wondering where we’re headed, how donations work, or just what kind of snacks keep us pedaling—this is the place! We’re all about transparency, connection, and keeping you in the loop every mile of the way. Check out the FAQs below to learn more about our mission, our ride, and how you can be part of the journey.
Our journey, one mission
Pedaling for a cause
We invite you to learn more about our journey.
Start of the Jouney
Pedal to the Rescue kicks off in Grand Rapids, Michigan—the hometown of our riders and the heart of this mission. It’s where the dream begins and the journey toward impact takes off.
Join the journey, follow along
Come along for the ride! Track our real-time map, see where we’re pedaling each day, and stay connected on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and road-side shoutouts.
Support LA Firefighters today
You don’t have to leave home to help heroes. Every dollar you donate goes to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation—our top priority and the reason behind every mile we ride.
Finishing Strong in Los Angeles
Our journey ends in Los Angeles, but the impact doesn’t stop there. We’re riding to support a city in need and show how far we’ll go to make a difference—together.
How donations help
A Chain Reaction of Good
Our goal? Raise $50,000 for the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation—and pedal 3,200 miles from Michigan to LA in just three months. It’s a big dream powered by two bikes, a lot of grit, and hopefully you. We’d love your help spreading the word, so share, cheer, and ride with us in spirit! Here are some of the ways that donating can help the LA Fire Department.
Donate to help provide
Advanced Equipment and Safety Gear
Donate to help get
Specialized Technology
Donate to support
Health and Wellness Programs
CONTACT US
Want to know more? We Look Forward to Hearing from you.
We believe in keeping things honest, open, and human. Whether you’re curious about our route, want to know how your donation helps, or just want to send some encouragement—reach out! We’re always happy to connect, answer your questions, and keep our mission as transparent as the skies we’re hoping to keep smoke-free.
