From the first time I saw a map of Canada, it only took about three seconds for me to wonder what it would be like to travel across it. Also at a young age I learned what it was to help people and how rewarding it can be. Perhaps it is my nature to be adventurous and giving. Regardless, these concepts evolved through the years and are as important now as they ever have been.

When I was six years old, I was becoming well versed in the ways of the bicycle and thought it was fascinating how your own strength, patience and perseverance can push a simple yet complicated machine as far as you can take it. It was also at this time I received a new baby brother.

Over time I developed a passion for cycling and a passion for helping others. It came to me one day in school like a vision. I pictured myself breathing in the air of an unknown territory, pushing myself through it on a bike. I soon realized I was biking across Canada and how one day I would make that happen. As the idea grew I thought of all the people I could raise money for with such a feat and how it would almost be a wasted opportunity if I were to ignore such a good thing.

Jordan Derksen
Age: 27 (born March 11, 1982 in Saskatoon, Sask)
School: Graduated with English and French High school Diplomas
-1 year post-secondary in Regina at Canadian Bible College
-want to get into marketing/business (creating advertisements as an art director or creative writer)
-eventually want to get into psychology

Work: Resigned from Shaw GMC as a parts driver but was assured there was a good chance for regaining my position upon return
-Worked as an Inventory Technician for a company based in Vancouver for 6 years. Whenever there was a contract, I was sent out from Calgary to lead or be a part of a team that counts technological assets for large companies. Oh, and we can be gone for months at a time, flying from place to place in The United States, Canada or even Europe eating steak dinners every night and staying in hotels with all expenses paid and I was even getting paid to sit and wait for contracts. It was an amazing job except business went downhill and we received no more large contracts.

I feel this trip is a good opportunity to raise awareness in Calgary and beyond of the amazing work done by food banks. Having seen it with my own eyes and even briefly volunteering recently, I know that my own passion for helping others is well justified by supporting them in this way. Even at a young age in a family with a tough financial situation, I remember receiving random donations on our doorstep in our time of need. I feel a sense of duty when thinking about how I can help in the same manner. Though my brother and I differ somewhat slightly in our goals for this adventure across Canada, we both agree this is a great opportunity for others to become aware of local food banks.

I have spent small amounts of time in Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal but everything else east of Saskatchewan I have not seen. I’ve been in over 30 different States and 8 different countries, yet not only have I never seen Manitoba, but seeing the Maritime Provinces remains something of my dreams. I am eager to see what Eastern Canada holds in store for me and really bring into perspective the idea of Canada as a whole. I guess the only thing remaining after this trip would be to trek through the territories. Maybe someday soon?

I love to ride my bike. I love to help people. So why not help people by riding my bike? I still have a long journey ahead of me, but I have faith that we will see it through and I know that with the help of friends, family and people I will probably never get a chance to meet, I can achieve my goal of crossing that invisible finish line and share a helping hand to those in need.