College Students Ride for Autism: Boston-to-Newport 2026
Boston college students and alumni from BU, Babson, RWU, Salve Regina, and Harvard ride September 19 for local autism support. Join your school's team.
This September, the Bike to the Beach Boston-to-Newport ride is powered by something special: the energy, teamwork, and commitment of local college communities. Student-athletes and alumni from Boston University, Babson College, Roger Williams University, Salve Regina University, and Harvard University are coming together to ride for a cause that hits close to home – supporting individuals with autism and other disABILITIES right here in New England.
Register for the Boston-to-Newport ride today and join the growing movement of college riders making a tangible difference in our community.
Why College Communities Are Riding
College students and alumni bring unmatched passion and organization to charity events. For the 2026 Boston-to-Newport ride on September 19, campus groups across New England are mobilizing teams, fundraising together, and building momentum around a shared mission: creating opportunity and impact for local families affected by autism.
The ride itself offers 100, 60, and 30-mile routes with relay options, making it accessible for riders of every experience level. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or a first-time charity rider, full support – including route logistics, rest stops, bike rentals, and SAG vehicles – ensures every participant is set up for success.
Which Schools Are Participating
Several New England colleges and universities have already stepped up to form rider teams and fundraising groups:
- Boston University – Current students and alumni are organizing one of the largest campus contingents
- Babson College – Student-athletes are bringing their team spirit and leadership to the cause
- Roger Williams University – Campus groups are rallying around local nonprofit partners in Rhode Island
- Salve Regina University – Students are joining the ride to support the communities they serve
- Harvard University – Alumni riders are adding their experience and networks to the effort
What College Teams Can Expect
Joining Bike to the Beach as a college team is straightforward and rewarding. Here is what your campus group can count on:
- Team fundraising tools – Customizable pages, peer-to-peer sharing, and progress tracking
- Full ride support – From start-line coordination to rest stops every 15 miles and mechanical assistance
- Volunteer opportunities – Host a rest stop, help with check-in, or cheer at the finish line
- Community recognition – Your school’s name featured alongside other participating universities
Contact the Bike to the Beach team to get your college group signed up.
How Your Funds Make a Local Impact
What sets Bike to the Beach apart is the local commitment. Funds raised by New England riders stay in the region, supporting direct services for individuals with autism and other disABILITIES. Contributions go to local nonprofit partners that provide therapy programs, educational support, recreational activities, and family resources. Your fundraising creates a measurable difference – not a distant charity line item.
Start a Team at Your School
Whether you are a student, faculty member, or alumni organizer, your campus can be part of this year’s ride. Gather a group, set a fundraising goal, and ride alongside students and alumni from across New England. The relay option makes it easy for teams of varying fitness levels to participate together.
Sign up for the Boston-to-Newport ride and help your college community make a lasting impact on the autism and disabilities community in New England.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to own a bike to participate?
No. Bike rental options are available for all participants. Contact the ride team for details on reserving a bike for ride day.
Can I ride as part of a relay team?
Yes. Relay options are available for all route distances, making it easy for teams to split the ride and participate together regardless of individual endurance levels.
Is there a fundraising minimum for college teams?
The standard fundraising minimum is $250 per rider, with registration fees separate from the fundraising requirement. Many teams exceed this goal through peer-to-peer campaigns and campus events.
How do I start a team at my school?
Visit the New England ride page to register your team. For group onboarding support, reach out through the contact page and the team will help you get set up.