Junior Leadership Council: Young Pros for Autism Support
The Bike to the Beach Junior Leadership Council unites young pros to advocate, fundraise, and volunteer for autism support in New England. Founded by BU alumni.
A new generation of leaders is stepping up for the autism and disabilities community in New England. The Bike to the Beach Junior Leadership Council (JLC) brings together young professionals to support the organization’s mission through advocacy, fundraising, and volunteer engagement. And it all started with three Boston University alumni who wanted to make a difference.
Learn more about the Junior Leadership Council and how you can get involved.
What Is the Junior Leadership Council?
The Junior Leadership Council is a group of young professionals who unite to support Bike to the Beach through three core activities:
- Advocacy – Spreading awareness about autism and disability support in local communities
- Fundraising – Organizing campaigns and events that raise money for local nonprofit partners
- Volunteer engagement – Recruiting peers to volunteer at ride events, host rest stops, and support ride day operations
The JLC also provides mentorship opportunities, giving younger professionals a chance to develop leadership skills while contributing to a meaningful cause. It is a space where community-minded individuals can build their networks, learn from experienced leaders, and create tangible impact.
Founded by Boston University Alumni
The council kicked off in Spring 2026 with three Boston University alumni: Tommy Connelly, Pat Myers, and Riley Kokoruda. Their vision was straightforward: create a structure where young professionals in New England could channel their energy and skills into supporting the autism community.
What started with three founders is designed to grow. The JLC will expand over the coming years to include other young professionals across New England who want to better engage their local community and make an impact through Bike to the Beach.
Why Join the Junior Leadership Council?
Young professionals bring fresh perspectives, digital savvy, and deep local networks to charitable work. The JLC offers a structured way to turn that potential into results:
- Build leadership skills – Organize campaigns, lead teams, and manage projects with real community impact
- Expand your network – Connect with other purpose-driven professionals across industries
- Create local change – Every hour volunteered and every dollar raised stays in New England
- Mentorship access – Learn from experienced board members and community leaders
How To Get Involved
The Junior Leadership Council is open to young professionals in the New England area who are passionate about making a difference in the autism and disabilities community. Whether you want to ride, volunteer, fundraise, or lead, there is a place for you.
Contact the Bike to the Beach team to express your interest in the Junior Leadership Council.
Support the JLC by Riding
One of the best ways to support the council’s mission is to participate in the September 19 Boston-to-Newport ride. Choose from 100, 60, or 30-mile routes with relay options, and fundraise alongside other young professionals making a local impact.
Register for the Boston-to-Newport ride and join the growing movement of young leaders supporting autism and disability organizations in New England.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the Junior Leadership Council?
The JLC is designed for young professionals in the New England area. There are no strict age or professional requirements – the common thread is a commitment to making a difference in the autism and disabilities community.
Is there a cost to join?
There is no cost to join the council. Members are encouraged to participate in fundraising and volunteer activities, but the focus is on engagement and impact, not dues.
Do I need to be a cyclist to participate?
Not at all. The JLC is about advocacy, fundraising, and volunteering. Riding is one way to support the mission, but council members contribute in many ways beyond the bike.
How often does the council meet?
Meeting schedules are set by the council members. Contact the Bike to the Beach team for current meeting information and upcoming events.