A Story of Endurance and Advocacy in Borrego Springs

After a 36-year career in education, retired high school biology teacher Sylvia Maas began spending more time in her second home of Borrego Springs, while maintaining her roots in Point Loma. It didn’t take long for her to notice a gap in local educational support—and to step up.

At Borrego Springs High School, students were preparing for college without a dedicated counselor. Sylvia began volunteering her time, mentoring seniors through applications, essays, and financial aid forms. She did this through Soroptimist International of Borrego Springs, becoming a vital resource for students navigating their next steps.

In 2021, she founded Bike4BorregoKids, combining her passion for endurance cycling with a mission to raise scholarship funds for local youth.

In just four years, the impact has been extraordinary:

• 2021: $5,000 raised; five $1,000 scholarships

• 2022: $7,000 raised; seven scholarships

• 2023: Ten $1,000 scholarships

• 2024: $30,000 raised; twenty $1,500 scholarships and one $5,000 Female Scholar/Athlete award

Supported by the community, friends, and family, Sylvia’s efforts continue to create new opportunities for students in Borrego Springs—and to inspire others through action and heart.

Support the Cause:
Follow Sylvia's rides and updates: Bike4BorregoKids.