Jim Sayer from Adventure Cycling Association @advcyclingassoc speaks in Columbus!

Jim Sayer, Executive Director of Adventure Cycling Association, stopped in Columbus to talk about their mission. I became an Adventure Cycling Association member because I was nominated for an ACA award last year and it was really cool to hear about all their activities and ventures. Here is a quick overview from their website;

The mission of Adventure Cycling Association is to inspire people of all ages to travel by bicycle. We help cyclists explore the landscapes and history of America for fitness, fun, and self-discovery.

Established in 1973 as Bikecentennial, Adventure Cycling is the premier bicycle travel organization in North America with 43,500 members nationwide. We are headquartered in Missoula, Montana.

As a nonprofit organization, all proceeds from tours, sales, and membership go directly back into supporting our mission and programs. (New to Adventure Cycling? Get a free info packet -- we'll throw in a cool tube sticker too!)

Our programs include:

• Routes & Maps: We research and produce cycling maps for ourAdventure Cycling Route Network, one of the largest route networks in the world at 41,399 miles (and growing).
• Guided Tours: Each year we lead more than 45 guided bike tours, including self-contained, supported, and educational trips.
• Adventure Cyclist: We publish 9 issues of our award-winningAdventure Cyclist magazine each year for our membership.
• U.S. Bicycle Route System: One of our national bicycle advocacy projects, when complete, the U.S. Bicycle Route System will be the largest official cycling route network on the planet.
• Membership: Adventure Cycling members receive 9 issues ofAdventure Cyclist magazine, discounts on our maps, and other great benefits.
• Online Store: Our Cyclosource store features the best in bike-travel gear.
• How-To Resources: We provide a variety of trip planning resources for bicycle travelers such as our annual Cyclists' Travel Guide, online How-To Department, and Touring Gear and Tips blog posts. Our new website, BikeOvernights.org, offers inspiration and how-to tips for 1-2 night bicycle trips.
• Online Communities: Our Forums provide space to ask questions and get replies from experienced bicycle tourists. You can also join the conversation on Facebook, or on Twitter.Bike touring and blogging? Add your blog (and follow others) atBicycleTravelBloggers.org!