LanghamP

The USA's biggest charities are very good at not being charitable while enriching both the directors and the people who contribute.

Another tax loophole.

Donor-advised funds are invariably the charities you hear about when some billionaire gives money to charity, but the money just seems to be given to friends and family on the payroll.

wipekitty

I've done exactly one charity ride. I'd consider doing one again if it were fairly low-cost and a bunch of my friends were going. For example, the local Lions Ride for Sight is around $20, and it's pretty no-frills. (I also use their drinking fountains all the time and feel a bit of an obligation.)

This is how I feel about many of the supported, non-competitive events: I can do the same ride, self-supported, and save my money for something else. I don't need the t-shirt or socks or beer or, really, the organized snack stations or SAG. I spend enough money on this hobby as it is, and prefer to give in other ways that are independent of cycling.

But if a big organized event is the impetus for some financially well-off folks to support a good cause, more power to them!