Giving back to the community through volunteerism can be one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime.

So many organizations provide countless services to residents of Covington and Newton County, but do so relying on the remainder of the community to help.

Project Adventure Kids is one of those organizations. PA offers a home and nurturing environment to children who would not otherwise have one. The staff - comprised of employees and volunteers - ensure that the residents of Project Adventure not only get an education, but that they learn how to function in the world as productive citizens.

PA is looking for help from the community right now. Help for an exciting program in its 20th year of existence in Covington - the Covington Century Bike Ride. This year's ride is expected to host more than 1,000 riders (an increase from 800 riders last year). Riders will have the option of a 30, 50, 80 or 100 mile ride through the Georgia countryside.

Such a large undertaking requires the aid of many. The bike ride has several volunteer options for those wanting to help. Those interested can work at cyclist's rest stops handing out water and food to cyclists.

Volunteers are also needed to bring the food for rest stops. Food items such as bananas, granola bars and peanut butter sandwiches are needed. Baked goods are also needed for the bike ride. These items can be dropped off ahead of time at PA. Additional cooks are needed on that Saturday to help prepare and serve the spaghetti dinner.

Help with parking and registration from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. on the day of the ride is also needed.

For more information on how you can help, contact Donna Auchenbach at (770) 490-8817 or auchenback@comcast.net. For more information about Project Adventure Kids or the Covington Century Bike Ride, visit www.projectadventurekids.org or www.covingtoncentury.org.