“You are capable of accomplishing more than you know. You have to believe.” – Ryan Dungey, Supercross Champion
With the rev of an engine, inspiration is shared across the motocross community. From kid riders to amateurs to professionals, it’s a community that supports one another and has grown to support the kids of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
For Minnesota volunteer, Chad Johnson, this community is what has driven him to want to do more for the kids of St. Jude.
“This is where my St. Jude journey started, with the inspiration of one of my favorite riders, Ryan Dungey,” said Chad. “St. Jude has become something special and meaningful to me.”
After learning about the children’s hospital and research center, a cause that is dear to his motocross idol and Supercross Champion Ryan Dungey, Chad joined the fight against childhood cancer and participated in his first St. Jude event in 2012.
“Every year of Ryan Dungey’s St. Jude Minnesota Ride, there are a big group from the motocross and Minnesota cycling community that participate and raise money for the hospital,” said Chad. “The community that I met through the St. Jude events helped me get into cycling and find new ways to raise funds for St. Jude. The more I learned about St. Jude, I knew that it was a great mission that I needed to continue to support.”
At many of the fundraising events, Chad noted that often kids are among the top fundraisers for the hospital.
“It’s awesome to see kids supporting kids. I see the incredible amount that these kids are raising for the hospital, and it brings everything full circle. They want to help others – and I share their passion in wanted to go the extra mile to make a difference.”
Chad’s dedication to the mission of St. Jude was evident on day one.
“Chad’s ability and willingness to help St. Jude in every way that he can was super powerful from day one,” said Matthew O’Shea, Senior Regional Development Director at St. Jude. “As an organization, it’s volunteers like Chad, who really bring our mission to life in our communities and amplify our founder, Danny Thomas’, dream to that no child shall die in the dawn of life.”
Chad continues to volunteer and participate in numerous St. Jude and Ryan Dungey Foundation events across Minnesota. The Ryan Dungey Foundation, founded in 2021, is dedicated to creating opportunities for the next generation of children and supporting the fight against childhood cancer.
“I have the time to give back and it’s always been in me to give back and help others in need. I have met so many cool Minnesotans that also support St. Jude and really love the Minnesota for St. Jude community.”
