Casey Richardson
A distinctive custom-built motorcycle was formally revealed in Penticton on Thursday evening, following months of dedicated work and community collaboration.
Discovery House’s Chopper of Hope fundraiser was announced in January, fueling excitement to witness the project.
This fundraising initiative, brought to life by Bannister Ford Penticton, provides one fortunate supporter the opportunity to own their dream bike.
The 1971 Harley Davidson was crafted by a dedicated team of volunteers, with Darrell Richards spearheading the effort at his motorcycle shop, Sinister Speed Co.
The fundraiser is dedicated to the memory of former Discovery House Executive Director Jerome Abraham, who sadly passed away last year after a battle with cancer.
Board member Jimmy Slimz recounted how he and Richards proposed the idea to the board last year. This led to gathering funds, purchasing a frame, and beginning the bike’s construction.
Castanet visited in February to get a sneak peek at the work done on the rigid frame Springer.
A condition of Richards allowing the use of his shop for this project was that client input would be incorporated.
Slimz, a former client of Discovery House from a decade ago, shared his surprise at the value gained from the collaborative experience.
“They are part of something larger than themselves, which is vital in recovery,” he expressed.
At Thursday’s unveiling, Canadian artist Cameron Whitcomb was introduced as the special guest and celebrity sponsor.
Nearly two years sober himself, Whitcomb discussed his journey to sobriety.
“If you’re seeking sobriety, or dealing with it, just find your purpose,” he advised, emphasizing how music has supported him. “Having something to look forward to helps keep me clean.”
He performed his track Quitter, which discusses addiction and has nearly 60 million streams on Spotify.
Jason Schafer, a Discovery House client, reflected that building the bike reminded him of his childhood alongside his father.
“It gave me something to anticipate each week,” he shared. “The sense of achievement and pride from seeing the final result is incredibly fulfilling.”
The motorcycle, aptly named Hope, was revealed to an enthusiastic crowd. Richards described it as a “moving piece of art representing sobriety and new beginnings.”
The chopper, combining classic aesthetics with modern performance, features:
- S&S SH93 Engine – Reliable, powerful, and durable
- 6-Speed Ultima Transmission – Smooth and contemporary shifting
- Springer Front End – Timeless design with enhanced function
- Modern Electronics – Newly updated for dependability
- Custom Seat by Hagel’s Upholstery
- Eye-Catching Paint by Maxum Autobody
- All-New Parts throughout
Raffle tickets are available until October 31, 2025. A single ticket costs $50, while a 3-ticket pack is priced at $100. Tickets can be purchased online here, in person at Discovery House or Bannister Ford Penticton, or you can contact [email protected] | 250-328-5142 for help.
Until the bike finds its new owner, it will tour around the community, appearing at local events, including Peachfest and the beach cruise.
All proceeds will directly benefit Discovery House, which offers support for wellness, recovery, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing addiction challenges.
The winner will be announced in a draw on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 3 p.m.
Photo: Jimmy Slimz
Bannister Ford Penticton, the Legendary Rider Title Sponsor for the Discovery House Chopper of Hope Fundraiser, unveiled on Thursday
Photo: Discovery House
Discovery House’s Chopper of Hope fundraiser was announced back in January, and anticipation has been building to see the project.
