In celebration of National Volunteer Week (April 20–26), we’re proud to honor the more than 3,000 incredible individuals who make Pelotonia possible. These Volunteers are the heart of our mission to end cancer, and their time, energy, and passion fuel every mile and every moment. Without our Volunteers, the mission simply wouldn’t be possible. This week, we’re excited to spotlight five outstanding Volunteers on our social media channels. 

Kicking off the week, we’re highlighting Megan Kruse, a dedicated Volunteer of eight years with Pelotonia. She has also been a Rider for seven years.

Inspired by her father’s diagnosis when she was in high school, Megan decided to volunteer with Pelotonia as a way to give back. Thankfully, Megan’s father, Jack, is now cancer-free, and her family credits this positive outcome to teams of researchers, doctors, and nurses. Although Megan lives outside of Ohio, she makes an annual trip to participate as a Volunteer and Rider. In fact, Pelotonia has become a meaningful experience for Megan’s family. Both her parents volunteer and ride, as well as her boyfriend, Matt, who has volunteered for the past four years. 

Megan’s favorite thing about volunteering for Pelotonia is reuniting with the same dedicated group of volunteers year after year, especially with her groups Lead Volunteer, Shirley Jordan. “We’ve built a strong team setting up bike racks together,” Megan said, praising the connections she’s built during her time volunteering on Bike Rack Setup and Bike Management, which is responsible for handling the setup and organization of bike racks at Opening Ceremony.

The powerful connections Megan has formed through Pelotonia extend outside of volunteering as well. While living in Pittsburgh, Megan was training alone for the 104-mile ride and expected to ride solo during Ride Weekend. However, she started chatting with a fellow Rider, Kristi, and the two bonded through the power of their inspiring stories. Before they knew it, Megan and Kristi crossed the finish line together,  a new friendship formed along the way. 

Another Pelotonia moment that has stuck with Megan was at the 2023 Opening Ceremony. Pelotonia Vice Chair Doug Ulman said, “Don’t you want to know what happens when you don’t give up?” Megan said the quote was so powerful, she keeps it on a Post-it note by her monitor, so she can always be reminded of the message. 

When asked for advice for people interested in Volunteering in Pelotonia, Megan said, “You are valued and appreciated. Take the time to talk to Riders and fellow Volunteers. You’ll leave feeling connected, inspired and glad you were a part of it.”  

Megan’s story is a beautiful reminder that Pelotonia is an incredible community. Thank you, Megan, for your continued participation in Pelotonia as a Volunteer and Rider!