Riding 22 in 22: A Nationwide Journey for Veteran Mental Health and Healing

Across America’s highways and back roads, a powerful movement is gaining momentum—one mile, one state, and one conversation at a time. Riding 22 in 22 is more than a motorcycle ride. It is a nationwide mission dedicated to saving lives, restoring hope, and bringing critical awareness to veteran mental health and suicide prevention.

“The number 22 isn’t just a statistic—it represents real people, real families, and real lives,” said one of the event organizers.

“Every mile we ride is for a veteran who needs to know they are not alone.”

The initiative raises funds to help provide transportation, lodging, and meals for veterans attending life-saving mental health treatment programs. These resources often remove the most significant barriers veterans face when seeking care.

“So many veterans want help but don’t know how they’ll get there or where they’ll stay,” an organizer explained.

“If we can take that worry off their shoulders, we’re already helping them take the first step toward healing.”

In addition to financial support, Riding 22 in 22 emphasizes what participants call wind and road therapy—the healing power of movement, connection, and shared experience. For many veterans, the open road offers something traditional therapy alone cannot.

“When you’re riding side by side with people who understand your story, something changes,” shared a veteran participant.

“You don’t have to explain yourself. You just ride, breathe, and heal.”

Each year, the organization hosts its Annual Nationwide Event, riding through 22 states in 22 consecutive days to spark conversation and build awareness. Along the route, the team partners with Harley-Davidson and Polaris dealerships, Veteran Service Organizations, VFW posts, American Legions, and local businesses hosting community events in every state they visit.

“These stops aren’t just meet-ups,” said a ride coordinator.

“They’re places where veterans connect with resources, families learn how to support their loved ones, and communities show up in a powerful way.”

While motorcycles lead the ride, inclusivity is central to the mission. All forms of transportation are welcomed, and participation is encouraged at any level.

“Not everyone can ride all 22 states and that’s okay,” an organizer said. “Whether someone joins us for one stop or the entire journey, they’re part of the mission.”

At its core, Riding 22 in 22 is about visibility, compassion, and action. It challenges silence around veteran mental health and replaces it with understanding, connection, and hope.

“We ride so veterans know they matter,” one participant said.

“And we won’t stop riding until every veteran knows help is out there and that people care.”

As engines start and miles unfold, Riding 22 in 22 continues its journey across the nation, carrying a simple but powerful message: healing happens together.

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