Maine teen bikes from Belfast to Key West while raising more than $20K for charity
18‑Year‑Old Belfast Teen Embarks on Road‑Trip to Fundraise for Breast Cancer
Belfast, Maine – Wallace Blum, an 18‑year‑old high‑school graduate from Belfast, has hit the open road on a mission to raise money for breast cancer research and treatment as he prepares to begin college later this month.
Blum, a senior at the local high school, announced his fundraising effort after completing his diploma. “I wanted to do something that mattered before I started college,” he told a local reporter. “It’s a chance to give back to the community and support people who are dealing with breast cancer.”
The 18‑year‑old will travel through several towns across Maine, stopping in small communities where he plans to host mini‑gatherings, sell handmade merchandise and encourage local residents to donate to a breast‑cancer awareness fund. The money raised will go toward research grants and support services for patients and families.
Blum’s journey begins in Belfast and will cover a route that takes him through coastal towns and inland villages. He will maintain a blog and share updates on his progress via social media, hoping to inspire others to contribute. “If I can bring even a small amount of attention to this cause, it’s worth it,” he said. “I’m just one person, but I can reach out to so many people.”
The initiative has already attracted support from local businesses, who have pledged to match donations and provide sponsorships for Blum’s events. Several schools and community centers have offered space for his fundraising activities, and a local café has agreed to host a “Wallace’s Way” coffee hour where proceeds go to the cause.
Blum will finish his travels before the start of his college classes, which will begin in the coming weeks. “I want to be ready and focused when I get to campus,” he said. “But I also want to finish this project strong, so I can carry the momentum into my new chapter.”
The town of Belfast has praised Blum’s initiative, noting that his efforts highlight the spirit of community and the importance of supporting health causes at a grassroots level. “Wallace’s passion for giving back is a real inspiration for all of us,” said a Belfast mayoral spokesperson. “We’re proud to see one of our own taking such bold steps.”
Blum’s open‑road fundraiser is ongoing, and those interested in donating or learning more about the campaign can visit the local community center or follow his updates on the campaign’s website.
