The streets of Atlanta’s Westside came alive during the 2025 Ride for the Westside on September 27, but the heart of the event wasn’t just the ride itself—it was the stories, memories, and voices of the people who call this community home.

“This is just an amazing day for our communities,” Jon Ingram, Chief Development Officer of Westside Future Fund said, smiling as riders and walkers made their way through neighborhoods steeped in history. “What makes Ride for the Westside different and unique? It’s a view into history… the cultural backbone that Atlanta is known for.”

The event welcomed everyone—cyclists, runners, and walkers—to engage with the Westside in their own way.

“You’re going to learn stuff about our city you may not know,” John Ahmann, President and CEO of Westside Future Fund noted, highlighting the blend of fun, exercise, and discovery that the event provides.

For many, the Ride sparked personal reflections.

“It’s familiar to me. I’m from this side of town… to see the bones that’s in this area always remind me of really good days of growing up in this neighborhood and remembering what it was at its prime,” said T. Dallas Smith, Chair of the Board of Westside Future Fund.

Rose Scott, host of “A Closer Look” on WABE, added, “You cannot talk about Atlanta’s history and not mention the Westside. It is a critical, significant, and sacred part of Atlanta’s history.”

The event was also about giving back. Ni-Kohle Golding, a young local artist, designed the t-shirts for this year’s event.

She shared how her community pours into her and this was an opportunity to give back saying, “This is the first shirt I’ve ever designed! I love to be involved in the community, and I felt really proud of seeing my design on the shirt.”

Maria Armstrong of Raising Expectations echoed the sentiments around coming together stating, “Community is made better by working together and really digging deep and supporting, with honor and integrity, the families who live here.”

Ride for the Westside is a living celebration of community, history, and culture. Each pedal stroke, each step, and each shared story reflected a deep connection to a neighborhood that continues to shape Atlanta’s identity.