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Gear Up to Give Back:

Merit Homes is thrilled to announce our return as a proud sponsor of the 2026 7 Hills of Kirkland Memorial Day Charity Bicycle Ride. Our commitment to this event spans several years, including firsthand participation from our Owner and Principal, Josh.

Background of 7 Hills:

For over 20 years, this beloved Memorial Day tradition has challenged cyclists (of all levels) to tackle Kirkland’s most notorious inclines to raise vital funds for our neighbors in need. Whether you are an avid cyclist or a casual rider looking for a fun outing and a way to challenge yourself, there is a route waiting for you.

The Local and Global Impact:

This event is the premier fundraiser for the Kirkland Kiwanis Foundation and Hopelink. By participating, you are directly supporting:

• College scholarships for Lake Washington and Juanita High School students, and automotive scholarships for LWIT.
• Funding for local Key Clubs and Builders Clubs.
• Providing meals, housing services, and resources for our neighbors in need on the Eastside (and some North King County areas) via Hopelink services.
• Supporting the Kiwanis Children’s Cancer Project.

ADDITIONALLY: This year, Kirkland Kiwanis Club is also inviting riders to donate to Bikes for Girls in Zambia. Just $75 provides a bike to a young woman, offering her a safer and faster way to reach school and work. This donation is not required, but is greatly appreciated. Contact Kiwanis Club to learn more.

Race Day Details: Monday, May 25, 2026

The ride starts and ends at the scenic Marina Park Pavillion. To ensure a smooth experience, online registration is highly encouraged (closing promptly at 9:00 AM on race day).

The Reward: After you conquer the hills, every valiant rider can look forward to the traditional strawberry shortcake and a commemorative event t-shirt at the finish line!

Next Steps

Ready to join us? Click here to register today and secure your spot for another incredible year of cycling and fundraising.

Not interested in riding? There are different ways to get involved from volunteering on Memorial Day, to corporate fundraising, or simply just showing up on race day to display your support!

A Trusted Local Builder for 50+ Years 

For decades, Merit Homes has been a cornerstone of the Kirkland community. Our legacy is built on a steadfast commitment to building homes of enduring value, inspired design, and exceptional quality. We have a deep understanding of what makes a home truly special on the Eastside, and we bring that same dedication and passion to every new project we undertake. We look forward to continuing our tradition of creating sophisticated Northwest Contemporary residences for future homeowners in both Kirkland and Redmond…and eventually Bellevue! 

Kirkland Kiwanis Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, Tax ID # 91-1717410.

Hopelink is a 501c3 nonprofit. Their EIN is 91-0982116.