Looking Back—And Looking Ahead

By Jeff Padgett, Ph.D.
Chief Communications Officer, Paul Anderson Youth Home

As the final miles of the 2026 Paul Anderson Youth Home Bike Ride came to an end, our riders crossed the finish line with tired legs, grateful hearts, and a renewed appreciation for the incredible legacy they represent. For seven days, these young men traveled hundreds of miles, not simply to complete a physical challenge, but to share a message of hope and to help provide brighter futures for the young men who call The PAYH home.

Every hill climbed, every mile pedaled, and every conversation along the route reminded us that the Bike Ride has always been about far more than bicycles. It is about perseverance. It is about transformation. Most importantly, it is about God’s faithfulness through generations.

This year’s ride was especially meaningful because it coincided with the release of our documentary, The History of the Bike Ride. The film traces the remarkable story that began when Paul Anderson himself mounted a bicycle in 1960 and rode more than 1,200 miles to raise awareness and support for young men in need. What started as one man’s extraordinary act of faith has grown into an annual tradition that continues to change lives more than six decades later.

The documentary captures the stories, memories, and milestones that have shaped the Bike Ride into what it is today. Former riders, staff members, supporters, and friends reflect on the countless ways this ministry has impacted lives through the years. For many, it serves as a reminder that every rider becomes part of something much bigger than themselves—a legacy of sacrifice, service, and hope.

As this year’s team pedaled across Georgia, they weren’t simply continuing a tradition; they were writing the next chapter in that remarkable story. They carried with them the vision that Paul Anderson first demonstrated so many years ago—that one person’s willingness to serve can inspire thousands of others to make a difference.

None of this would be possible without the incredible generosity of our supporters, churches, businesses, volunteers, host communities, and prayer partners. Your encouragement along the route and your faithful financial support continue to make this ministry possible. Because of you, young men at the Paul Anderson Youth Home receive the opportunity to discover purpose, build character, strengthen their faith, and prepare for successful futures.

As we reflect on another successful Bike Ride, we are filled with gratitude—not only for what God has done this year, but for the generations of lives He has touched through this ministry. The journey continues, and we look forward with excitement to seeing where the road leads next.

Thank you for being part of this incredible legacy. Together, we are helping write the next chapter in the history of the Paul Anderson Youth Home Bike Ride.

2026 Bike Ride Recap:
Every Mile Changed A Life

What an incredible week of riding, camaraderie, and purpose! The 2026 PAYH Bike Ride brought together participants, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters who shared a passion for making a difference. From the first pedal stroke to the final finish line celebration, the event showcased the power of community, determination, and giving back.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who rode, cheered, volunteered, and contributed to making this year’s ride such a success. Together, we created lasting memories, strengthened connections, and helped advance PAYH’s mission.

Here’s to the miles traveled, the friendships formed, and the impact made. We can’t wait to see you on the road again next year!

Strength For The Day

Each week, PAYH shares a devotional; “Strength For The Day,” by Chaplain (Col) Stephen W. Leonard, USA, Ret. In addition to being a retired US Army Chaplain, he is also the husband of our Co-Founder, Glenda Anderson Leonard. His writing is both moving and inspiring and will most certainly lift your spirit and encourage you in your walk with Jesus. To receive his weekly writing, you can subscribe online at payh.org. You can also read past writings by clicking here.

Honoring James Lowe

At the end of July, the Paul Anderson Youth Home said farewell to a faithful teacher, vocational coordinator, colleague, and friend: James Lowe.

For 14 years, James has invested in the young men of PAYH with the steady conviction that education can open doors, restore confidence, and help shape a brighter future. In his roles as Teacher and Vocational Coordinator, he has helped make learning practical and meaningful—equipping students not only for the next assignment or job opportunity, but for the responsibilities and possibilities ahead.

James’ influence has also reached beyond the classroom. Newsletter readers have come to know his thoughtful writing, which regularly connects history, faith, gratitude, and service. Whether reflecting on Memorial Day, Independence Day, or the freedoms we enjoy, James invited us to remember those who came before us and to use the gifts God has given us wisely. His words consistently pointed back to a simple, enduring truth: freedom finds its highest purpose when it is used to serve others.

That message has been lived out in James’s own work at PAYH. Every lesson taught, every vocational skill encouraged, and every conversation offered an opportunity to remind a young man that his past does not have to define his future. This is the heart of the Paul Anderson Youth Home’s mission, and James has served that mission with care and consistency.

As James enters retirement, we celebrate not only his years of service but the quiet, lasting impact of his example. The measure of a teacher’s work is often found in places no report card can capture: a student who discovers he can succeed, a young man who gains confidence in his abilities, or a life redirected toward purpose and hope. Those are the kinds of seeds James has helped plant.

James, thank you for your dedication to the young men entrusted to our care, for your faithful contributions to this ministry’s life, and for the wisdom and encouragement you have shared with our PAYH family. We pray that retirement brings you rest, joy, and many blessings in the days ahead.

You will be deeply missed, and your legacy will continue in the lives of the young men you have served.

With gratitude and warmest wishes,
Your Paul Anderson Youth Home Family

We Are Better Together

Thank you, Presley Craft, Communications Associate with Canoochee EMC, and the entire team for your meaningful contribution and support. We’re grateful for the care and dedication you bring to our community.

Back To Where It All Began

We were thrilled to welcome back Larry Dunn, the very first boy to come to The PAYH, for a special visit with our current residents. It was an inspiring day as he connected with the boys and shared his story of transformation.