The annual ride, open to the public, will begin in Puyallup and stretch about 200 miles south to Hood River, Ore.

Riders are asked to donate $20 before the journey. Proceeds will go to Pierce County’s chaplaincy program, which provides counseling at the scene of fires, traffic accidents and other disasters.

BACKGROUND: Deputies Greg Stonack and Bruce Johnston started the project five years ago as an opportunity to have fun while contributing to the department’s scholarship fund.

“It started with just a couple of guys saying, ‘Hey, let’s go for a ride over the weekend,’” Stonack said.

CHANGES: The first year drew 25 riders and $200 in donations, Stonack said. During last year’s trip to Grand Coulee Dam, 90 riders raised about $3,000 for the Special Olympics.

Proceeds in other years have gone to Family Renewal Shelter, Mary Bridge Children’s Advocacy Center and the Crystal Judson Family Justice Center.

HOW TO HELP: Riders should show up for check-in at 8 a.m. Saturday at the Albertsons parking lot at 160th and Meridian streets in Puyallup. The ride will begin at 9 a.m. Once they get to Hood River, riders will hold a banquet and silent auction. Participants must arrange their own shelter for the night.

Joyce Chen: 253-597-8633