Join the 2026 Juneteenth Challenge to Give Back

The Concept2 Juneteenth Challenge is back again in 2026. It is a one-day virtual event on June 19 that coincides with Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in 1865 in the United States. We invite you to join us for the seventh annual Juneteenth Challenge and do a small part to celebrate African American freedoms and achievements. 

Here’s how the challenge works: Concept2 pledges to donate $19,000, plus an additional $2 for every person who completes at least 1900 meters on the Concept2 RowErg, SkiErg or BikeErg (3800 meters on the BikeErg), up to a maximum total of $38,000. In 2025, we raised over $28,000, with over 4500 signing up for the challenge.  

Last year we supported Edge Outdoors, Paddle for Peace and Richmond Cycling Corps during the 2025 Juneteenth Challenge. The funds helped create inclusive, active, outdoor spaces for these three charities where participants could experience joy, connection and belonging in environments where they’ve historically been underrepresented. Annette Diggs, the Founder of EDGE Outdoors said, “Through the Concept2 Juneteenth Challenge, we introduced more than 30 participants to snowboarding at zero cost, helping them build confidence and develop new skills on snow.”  

At Paddle for Peace, the funds raised during the Juneteenth Challenge helped them continue to provide free ocean access, education, leadership development, and wellness-based programming for youth and families from underserved communities in San Diego. Marisa Bell, the Founder and Executive Director at Paddle for Peace explained, “These funds helped cover program costs such as supplies, surf and beach equipment, instructor and staff support, transportation related logistics, educational materials, and safe, welcoming beach experiences for participants.”  

Funding from the Concept2 Juneteenth Challenge supported Richmond Cycling Corps’ as well, enabling them to expand summer programming and significantly increase engagement with youth while school was out of session. Emily Monroe, of Richmond Cycling Corps said, “During the summer months, we dramatically increased opportunities to engage with our youth community, guiding 20–30 youth through multiple cycling sessions each week allowing participants to build endurance, confidence and skills.” Beyond riding, the support also strengthened wraparound services during a time when youth need it most. With increased time together, RCC was able to offer mentorship, a safe community space, meals, and guidance through challenges like conflict resolution and personal growth. Overall, the funding covered essential operational costs while making it possible to deepen impact, expand programming, and create meaningful opportunities that go beyond cycling. 

Concept2 is honored to have supported organizations making a meaningful impact in their communities through the Juneteenth Challenge over the years. This year, we're proud to continue that commitment by supporting the following three organizations with this year’s funds: 

Cycle4Success
Based out of Charlotte, North Carolina, Cycle4Success’ goal is to expand access to mountain biking for youth in under-resourced communities by creating inclusive, supportive environment where all participants feel welcome regardless of background or experience. Through coaching, skills clinics, and group rides (along with bike safety and repair education) the program builds both technical ability and confidence. Beyond the trail, Cycle4Success also focuses on life skills like entrepreneurship, nutrition, and coping strategies, helping youth grow on and off the bike. By removing financial barriers through scholarships, the organization is opening doors, breaking down stereotypes, and working toward a more diverse and representative cycling community. 

CASA NYC
CASA-NYC (Court Appointed Special Advocates of New York City) is a nonprofit that supports children and youth involved in the child welfare and foster care system by pairing them with trained volunteer advocates. These advocates work alongside social workers and attorneys to ensure each child’s needs are met; their rights are protected, and they have a path to safe, stable, permanent homes. Founded in 1979 as part of a national movement, CASA-NYC serves more than 1,100 young people each year across all five boroughs, providing consistent mentorship, advocacy and access to critical resources. The organization is grounded in equity and anti-racism, working to address the systemic challenges that impact families while helping children build stability, connection and long-term support systems. 

Son of a Saint
Founded in New Orleans, Son of a Saint focuses on building lasting relationships and wraparound care for both youth and their families, creating stability, opportunity and a path toward long-term success. Son of a Saint is a nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of fatherless boys through consistent mentorship, holistic support, and a strong, nurturing community. The organization provides long-term guidance that includes academic support, mental health services, life skills, and career development, all designed to help young men reach their full potential. 

Here's How to Participate in the Juneteenth Challenge!  

First, be sure you have the free Concept2 Online Logbook, or use our free app ErgData, to participate in the Juneteenth Challenge, or any of our Logbook challenges. It's simple to set up your online logbook. By doing so, you will be opened up to a world of training opportunities like keeping track of your total meters, analyzing your progress, taking part in challenges, and comparing your results against others worldwide.  

Next, sign up for the challenge from your online logbook page. Then on June 19, row, ski or ride 1900 meters on the Concept2 RowErg, SkiErg or BikeErg (Reminder: BikeErg meters are counted as half when applied to the challenge so 3800 will need to be completed). Meters can be done all at once in one workout or over several workouts throughout the day. Just be sure to use ErgData to automatically upload your meters to the logbook or manually enter them into your online logbook. 

Your participation in the Juneteenth Challenge will enable our three 2026 organizations to better serve their missions. At Concept2, we’re honored to help uplift organizations making a difference through the Juneteenth Challenge. It’s a privilege to partner with programs that expand access, create opportunities, and uplift individuals through movement and connection. We’re proud that this initiative helps amplify important work and contributes to building stronger, more inclusive communities.