First Ever Female Led Motorcycle Ride in Upstate New York To Support Survivors of Domestic Violence

On Saturday, July 12, 2025, something truly impactful is happening in the Southern Tier. The Artemis Chapter of the Guardian Belles Law Enforcement Riding Club (LERC) is hosting a full-day fundraiser to support Rise NY, an organization that serves individuals and families affected by domestic violence.

The event will take place at the Vestal Elks Lodge #2508, located at 2701 Vestal Parkway West, and will include the first-ever female-led organized motorcycle ride in Upstate New York.

Who Are the Guardian Belles?

The Guardian Belles LERC is an all-female riding club made up of women who are bonded by a shared mission of service, strength, and sisterhood.

Originally formed in 2015 as a support group for the Punishers Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club (PLEMC), the Guardian Belles continue to support law enforcement, military, and public service professionals while also giving back to their communities through volunteer work and charity events.

The Artemis Chapter’s Mission

The Artemis Chapter, representing areas across the Southern Tier of New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania, was founded on July 8, 2023. These women ride with purpose and wear purple to symbolize their unwavering commitment to families impacted by domestic violence.

Their chapter was founded on the belief that sisterhood and service go hand in hand, and that real change starts with showing up for one another and for the community.

Why “Artemis”?

The name “Artemis” was chosen with intention. In Greek mythology, Artemis is a goddess known for her fierce independence, courage, and sense of justice. She protected the vulnerable and acted with determination and strength, qualities that the women of this chapter strive to embody both on the road and in everyday life.

For the Artemis Chapter, this isn’t just about riding. It’s about making a difference, lifting one another up, and creating meaningful change in their communities.

Kickstands Up for a Cause

The Ride for Rise will kick off with registration from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., followed by kickstands up at 10:00 a.m. Riders and passengers will enjoy a scenic ride that starts and ends at the Vestal Elks Lodge. Participation costs $15 for riders and $10 for passengers, with all proceeds going to Rise NY.

More Than a Ride, A Full Afternoon of Fun

Starting at noon, the public is invited to join the festivities back at the lodge. The event will feature music from DJ Hunter Russell, delicious food from Jimmy Joe’s Famous BBQ, and sweet treats from an on-site ice cream truck.

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Guests can browse local vendors, many of them women-owned and women-led, enter basket raffles, and try their luck at 50/50 drawings. It’s a community celebration designed to bring people together for a cause that truly matters.

Supporting the Work of Rise NY

Rise NY’s mission is to support people experiencing domestic violence through advocacy, legal assistance, and long-term empowerment. The organization helps individuals rise up, reclaim their lives, and move forward with dignity and strength.

Every dollar raised during this event will directly support their work in our region, offering vital resources and hope to those who need it most.

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Join the Movement

Whether you're a rider, a supporter of the cause, or just looking for a meaningful way to spend your Saturday, this event is for you. The Artemis Chapter invites the community to show up, wear purple, and stand in solidarity with survivors. With your support, they’ll continue to ride and rise…together.