Stephen Bongiorno from Farmingdale will join in the fight against cancer by riding in the Pan-Massachusetts Challenge (PMC), the nation's most successful charity cycling event, on Aug. 2 and 3.

Epitomizing all that can be accomplished when individuals work as a unified force, they will join the 3,800 PMC cyclists riding to raise $16 million for cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through its Jimmy Fund - crucial funds that are making a difference in the lives of cancer patients around the world. Their collective goal is to pedal past $100 million raised and contributed to the Jimmy Fund in the PMC's 24-year history.

The PMC, presented by the Boston Red Sox, contributes more money to charity than any other athletic fundraising event in the nation. It is also the most efficient - 92 cents of every dollar raised by PMC cyclists goes directly to the Jimmy Fund.

The PMC is a family of thousands who return to Massachusetts year after year to unite in a common mission - a world without cancer. The camaraderie shared by PMC cyclists is among the PMC's greatest accomplishments. Doctors at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute join their patients as teammates, riding for a shared goal. More than 125 PMC cyclists are cancer survivors. Thousands of riders have lost loved ones to the disease, or ride in honor of those currently in treatment. While required to fund raise between $1,500 and $2,500 to participate, the average PMC cyclist raises $4,300. Their commitment to fundraising is a testament to their dedication to the cause and their belief in the PMC mission. Hundreds have been members of the PMC family for more than 20 years.

"Everyone has a connection to cancer in some way," said Billy Starr, PMC founder and executive director. "Thousands of cyclists have found the PMC is the best way to combine their love for cycling with their desire to make a difference and help others."

Today cyclists come from 40 states to participate in the one- or two-day event. They choose between six different routes, ranging in mileage from 89 to 192, and travel through 46 bucolic towns en route to the Wellesley and Provincetown finish lines. More than 1,900 PMC volunteers fill jobs that are typically paid positions, thus enhancing the event's profitability and culture of giving. In addition, nearly 200 corporate sponsors, including MFS Investment Management and New England Cable News support the PMC each year.

To become a volunteer, a virtual rider, or make a financial contribution to a rider from your town, visit www.pmc.org or call (800) WE-CYCLE. Checks can be made payable to PMC, 77 Fourth Avenue, Needham, MA 02494.