Vancouver Island's Grandmothers for Africa are getting ready to saddle up for charity.

The women ride their bicycles to raise vital funds to support grandmothers and their families in Africa affected by HIV and AIDS.

The group is appealing for women over the age of 55 to join them in a number of ways, including the group鈥檚 epic three-day ride from Campbell River to Victoria. Those feeling less adventurous can participate in smaller group rides or go solo.

鈥淲hether they ride a regular bike or electric, go to a spin class or cycle at home on a stationary bike, all are welcome,鈥� said the group in a press release. 鈥淓ach woman sets her own personal goal, deciding how far she will cycle in the month. The more cyclists, the more funds we raise.鈥�

The fundraiser runs from Aug. 11 to Sept. 8.

Money raised will go to the Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign of the Stephen Lewis Foundation, which supports grandmothers that care for grandchildren whose parents died as a result of the HIV and AIDS pandemic.

Member Jocelyn Green, who founded the cycle fundraiser in 2007 after her experience volunteering for an orphanage in Africa, said that the campaign is committed to 鈥渉elping children be raised in their own communities with caregivers who love them鈥�. 

鈥淭his is what we can do from here, they need financial support, and our goal is to fundraise this support,鈥� said Green.

Last year, the group celebrated a milestone moment when the total funds raised reached the $2 million mark. Since 2006, members have raised funds in a variety of ways including craft sales, African dinners, stride walks and the annual cycling event.

For more information on how to take part, visit: .