Thousands gather for 45th Annual Ride for the Arts to support the United Performing Arts Fund

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Bikers took off Sunday morning for a one-of-a-kind course over the Hoan Bridge.

"It's pretty cool to be able to ride Hoan Bridge," said Christa Blohowiak, UPAF rider.

The route spanning Milwaukee's lakefront to Cudahy and over the iconic arched bridge.

It's all for the 45th Annual United Performing Arts Fund 'Ride for the Arts.'

"We have been biking through Milwaukee since 1981 all in support of the performing arts," said Katie Korek, PR Manager United Performing Arts Fund.

Performing arts organizations like the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Milwaukee Repertory Theater.

"The performing arts is such a critical part of our city and something we are so lucky to have," said Korek.

PR Manager for United Performing Arts Fund Katie Korek says the arts do more than just provide entertainment.

"They are an economic driver; they bring 330 million dollars into our economy. From ticket sales and event related spending. They educate over 100 thousand students in a thousand schools in a hundred zip codes every year," said Korek.

Samantha Sostarich and Stephanie Staszak are both performers with the Skylight Music Theater.

They both grew up learning their craft in Milwaukee and say the arts are important for kids.

"It's important to keep these programs because starting from a young age not everyone is going to become a theater performer or an art major but the arts teach you have empathy and how to connect with others," said Stephanie Staszak, Local Actress and Event Emcee

Samantha says events that support UPAF are important now more than ever.

"Sadly Wisconsin is one of the last states in funding for the arts so the arts programs that we love and are so proud of here in Milwaukee all of our festivals our music festivals they all rely on the united performing arts funds to remain open," said Samantha Sostarich, Local Actress and Event Emcee.

This year more than five thousand bikers showed up to support UPAF's largest fundraiser of the year.

"During this event our goal is 500 thousand dollars and it's part of a bigger campaign to raise around 10 million dollars," said Korek.

As of this morning UPAF has raised more than $394.9 thousand dollars.

To learn more about UPAF click here.