(Photo above Josh Hart)
Josh Hart is a lover of humanity, a social entrepreneur. a humble servant, and an optimistic adventurer. Spending years learning the importance of misery, Josh had been living a ‘who needs a liver’ lifestyle. In 2010 his life took a drastic turn. After surrendering, he was given a divinely inspired mission: to create a brighter Christmas for children. Hart will be sharing the mission and vision of Operation Elf Box on a 3,100 mile journey from coast to coast with his faithful border collie, Shoeless Jo. On March 1 Josh Hart and his TurboPup, emBARKed on an epic adventure, pedaling a bicycle from San Diego to St. Augustine, Florida.
Hart is the founder of Operation Elf Box, a non-profit organization based in Bend. Every year he organizes a toy-drive and opens free toy stores inviting families to shop complimentary by appointment, those who need a little extra love at Christmas time. In addition, he produces two annual events. Celebrate is attended by women affected by domestic violence.
The 12 Bands of Christmas is a free Christmas party that brings the entire community together. With the help of thousands, together they have distributed over 50,000 gifts to more than 8,300 children, those who may have otherwise gone without. Josh Hart is a giver, finding it difficult to ask for help for himself. He has worked diligently towards accomplishing this mission for over a five years.
Hart has been without a permanent home, surfing sofas and sometimes living out of his car. Despite these challenges, he has consistently made a tremendous impact on our communities with very little monetary resources. You can make dreams come true by making a contribution, supporting his long bike ride.
Hart will be sharing the mission and vision of Operation Elf Box on a 3,100 mile journey from coast to coast with his faithful border collie, Shoeless Jo. On March 1 Josh Hart and his TurboPup, emBARKed on an epic adventure, pedaling a bicycle from San Diego to St Augustine, Florida. It would be impossible without your generous support.
Please follow his blog at
www.operationelfbox.org or
www.longbikeride.com.
