The fourth annual Race for the Ring is coming to Sacramento on July 14, 2012. This text messaged based treasure hunt on bike through downtown Sacramento directly benefits programs at Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services (SFBFS). Teams of two will pedal, scoot and wheel their way through downtown Sacramento guided by text message clues in search of more than $10,000 in prizes.

Each week leading up to the event, we will interview someone who is involved in the race to find out why they are racing for a reason.

This week's interview is with Bette Simpson, a former elementary school teacher and SFBFS volunteer.

The Sacramento Press: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Bette Simpson: I am a recently retired elementary school teacher. I am also a volunteer at Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services, where I have the privilege of teaching computer skills to adults.

SP: Racers will be racing around town in search of jewelry graciously donated by Rogers Jewelry Company. What is your favorite piece of jewelry?
BS: My favorite piece of jewelry would have to be my engagement-wedding-anniversary jacket, wedding ring trio. It represents nearly 38 years of happy memories with a special man.

SP: What are you looking forward to the most about this year's event?
BS: I am looking forward to Race For the Ring this year because it is always so much fun. Everyone is excited and the enthusiasm is contagious.

SP: What motivates you to be part of this cause?
BS: Motivation to participate comes from the fact that I believe in the SFBFS mission, and selfishly I have a great time!

SP: What is your role with Race for the Ring 2012 and/or Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
BS: Last year, my husband and I got to spend a beautiful day in a park as a clue destination, and then we attended the high energy after party and auction (and came home with some fine wines, I might add!)

My role this year with Race For the Ring will also be a volunteer assignment, although, if I had a good bicycle and was more than a few years younger, I would be out there racing!

SP: What is one thing the public might not (but should) know about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services?
BS: Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services is so much more than a food handout program. They teach parenting, cooking, gardening, and computer skills. They introduce clients to new fruits and vegetables, and teach clients how to prepare them. They assist clients with resume preparation, and have a clothing program where clients can obtain suitable clothing for interviews and job wear. But that is not even the total extent of services SFBFS is able to provide because of events like Race For the Ring.

For more information about the event or to register to participate, please visit the Race for the Ring website or the Race for the RIng splash page.

“Like” Race for the Ring on Facebook.

For more information about Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, please visit www.sacramentofoodbank.org.