On Friday, May 16, 2025, the Face of America: Gettysburg weekend officially commenced with its annual kick-off celebration at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Crystal City, Arlington, VA. Athletes, staff, and volunteers gathered in the Regency Ballroom for a warm evening of reunion, reflection, and recognition.
The evening was more than just a dinner—it was a tribute to service, sacrifice, and the enduring power of community. As guests shared a buffet meal and drinks, they also took time to reconnect with teammates, meet new friends, and most importantly, honor the veterans and individuals whose contributions exemplify the mission of World T.E.A.M.
Sponsored by the Osaic Foundation, Face of America is World T.E.A.M.’s largest fundraising event that supports our military adaptive athletes and programs that promote inclusion and adventure for individuals of all abilities. This year, thanks to the dedication of our athletes and supporters, over $750,000 was raised.
Recognizing Our Top Fundraisers
We proudly recognized the top fundraising teams and individuals who made this achievement possible:
Top 3 Teams:
- Team P.I.N.K. – $95,115
- Team Mac’s Marauders – $73,925
- Team Patriot – $53,485
Top 3 Individual Fundraisers:
- Gregory Gadson – $44,190
- Mike Beezley – $31,941
- Steve Jablonski – $16,257
Celebrating Lon Dolber: A Legacy of Leadership and Service
The Ricky Prine Exceptional Leadership Award, is a recognition given to those who embody the mission, values, and spirit of World T.E.A.M.
We were proud to honor Lon Dolber, a transformative leader whose passion and dedication have shaped the organization’s direction for nearly two decades. Lon’s involvement with World T.E.A.M. began in 2007 with a climb up Mt. Kilimanjaro, coaching athletes with special needs to the summit. His contributions didn’t stop there. From kayaking the Puget Sound with veterans to launching the Adventure Team Challenge: New York with The Center for Discovery, Lon has continuously broken new ground in inclusive sports.
Lon’s tireless support, including participating in over 50 World T.E.A.M. events, chairing and sponsoring Face of America rides, and serving as Vice Chair of the Board, has left an indelible mark on the organization.
“Meeting Lon in his Holbrook office, seeing the framed photos of WTS events, hearing his vision that prioritized people over profit—this is what made me take the job,” said Jon Brideau, President and CEO of World T.E.A.M. “He’s been a mentor and a guiding light.”
Following his recent retirement from a distinguished career at Osaic, Lon continues his service as our new Chairman of the Board, stepping into the role as Jim Benson, founder of World T.E.A.M., steps down. It was with great pride that we presented the 2025 Ricky Prine Exceptional Leadership Award to Lon Dolber.
“For me,” said Lon, “Face of America gives me the opportunity to ride with men and women who have served our country. To give back and spend time with the very best that America has—it’s a true privilege.”
Introducing the Inaugural Service Member of the Year: Lew Meyer
In a special moment of the evening, we proudly introduced the first-ever Service Member of the Year Award, created to honor an individual whose lifetime of service—both in uniform and in the community—embodies the essence of patriotism and perseverance.
Our inaugural honoree, Lew Meyer, has lived a life of extraordinary service. From enlisting in the Naval Reserve during the Korean War, to flying carrier-based jets and helicopters for over three decades, Lew’s commitment to the country has been unwavering.
After his military career, Lew flew commercially for United Airlines for 28 years. But when the FAA’s age-60 rule ended that chapter, Lew turned to a new passion—cycling. At 60, he began conquering grueling endurance events, including 18 straight years climbing Hawaii’s 10,024’ Haleakala, numerous 12- and 24-hour cycling races, and several record-setting Race Across America relays.
Lew’s tribute rides—tandem cycling with a Marine’s combat boots on the rear seat, and an American flag flying above a sign that reads “The price of freedom is visible here”—stand as a powerful reminder of sacrifice and gratitude.
Lew has been a fixture of the Face of America ride, continuing to inspire riders of all ages and backgrounds with his determination, humility, and deep sense of honor.
As the Face of America weekend unfolded, it did more than mark a cycling event—it honored those who have served, uplifted those who continue to serve, and reminded all of us what it means to lead with heart.
To Lon and Lew—thank you. Your legacy fuels the mission of World T.E.A.M. and inspires us all to ride with purpose.
