Owens House supporters kick-started their 8th Annual Blue Ribbon campaign Friday.

The Blue Ribbon Ride, the organization&8217;s largest fund-raiser, will be held May 19 in support of children who have been abused.

Rep. Cam Ward (R-Alabaster) was on hand to discuss the seriousness of the work Owens House does and help rally excitement for this year&8217;s drive.

&8220;Abused children, they really don&8217;t have high paid lobbyist in Montgomery. Their lobbyist and advocates are all of us here,&8221; Ward said. &8220;If it&8217;s not for that there is no telling how many children would fall through the cracks.&8221;

Bill Bostick, chief assistant district attorney for Shelby County and Owens House board member, said he hopes the ribbons and motorcycle ride will keep abused children in the forefront of people&8217;s thoughts.

&8220;We don&8217;t want anyone to get lulled into a false sense of security,&8221; Bostick said. &8220;It&8217;s [Shelby County] the best place to raise a family, but we can&8217;t turn a blind eye to the fact that this does go on, even in this county.&8221;

Event coordinators are looking for area sponsors for the 80-mile motorcycle ride. Supporters can contribute as a Road Tester for $250 or up to a Full Throttle patron, for those who give $5,000 or more. Motorcycle enthusiasts who are interested in participating will receive a place in the ride, a T-shirt and lunch. The cost to participate is $20 per rider or $30 for bikes with two riders.

For more information, call Chanda Leshoure or Helen Rardin at 669-3333.