ALAMOSA — Tim Dellett is a common sight on the San Luis Valley roads in spring and summer, stretched out on his red Redline touring bike. Whether he’s pedaling up La Veta pass or riding in the wide shoulder of Highway 160 between Alamosa and Monte Vista, you can assume he’s in training.

This summer will mark Dellett’s 14th year participating in the Habitat 500, a bike ride fundraiser organized in Minnesota from July 9 to 15 on behalf of Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the globe. The 135 riders collectively annually raise more than $520,000 for the affiliates of their choice.

Dellett has been using his pedal power to support the San Luis Valley Habitat for Humanity affiliate since moving to Alamosa in 1997. Since then he has raised more than $100,000 to support Habitat’s mission to bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope. As in years past, 100 percent of funds Dellett raises this year will stay with SLV Habitat.

Dellett first became involved with Habitat for Humanity during college on a service trip. Afterwards he worked with various affiliates in Florida, Louisiana, and Georgia. He participated in his first Habitat 500 in 1996, just prior to moving to Alamosa.

“The ride went from Louisville, Kentucky, to Atlanta, Georgia. It was not an easy ride, but it was great!” Dellett says. “I did it because I wanted to be part of a team that was working for a common goal. And that’s what I found.”

His reasons haven’t changed much over the years. “I like the sense of undertaking an adventure to raise funds for an organization I care about.”

Dellett has historically extended the adventure, doing a solo bike ride prior to the start of the Habitat 500. Always starting in a different small town in Minnesota, Dellett has kicked off his solo trips from the Pacific Northwest, New York City, Kansas City, Alamosa, Northern Colorado, Chicago, the Gulf Coast, and Winnipeg, Canada. He also previously used the Santa Fe Century and Ride the Rockies as fundraisers for SLV Habitat.

“I’ve met wonderful people over the years. I am grateful to promote the work of Habitat in such a unique way.”

This year marks SLV Habitat’s 23rd year providing simple, decent, affordable housing in the Valley. During that time the organization has worked with more than 100 individuals and children in various communities of the Valley. Families qualify based on need, willingness to partner, and ability to repay their mortgage. Most homes are built with adobe bricks and make use of passive solar heating. These building techniques help keep the housing truly affordable through lower energy bills.

This also marks the last year Dellett may ride for the local affiliate. Soon after the ride is over, Dellett and his family will be relocating to Kansas to be closer to family.

“That’s my motivation this year; reflecting on all the connections and relationships I’ve made over the years because of these rides.”

SLV Habitat will host an ice cream social this Thursday from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Alamosa Presbyterian Church. All are invited to stop by and support Dellett on his ride. Individuals can also support Dellett by mailing checks with the memo “Habitat 500” to SLV Habitat for Humanity, P.O. Box 1197, Alamosa 81101. Donations over $100 will qualify for Enterprise Zone tax credit.

To learn more about SLV Habitat, call 719-589-8678 or email [email protected].