About Michael La Marca
Our brother/son/nephew/friend, Michael La Marca unexpectedly passed away in October 2020 while hiking in the Tonto National Forest near his home in Arizona. In order to honor Michael's legacy, his family created the Real Decent Foundation in 2021, which combines his continuous pursuit of education with his passion and career in Solar Energy. Michael excelled in math and sciences, graduating with a Physics degree from U of Michigan and then earning a PhD in Mathematics from Arizona State University. This path fueled Michael’s interest in renewable energy and led to his most recent role as Director of Solar Fleet Performance for Sunnova Energy. During his post graduate studies, Michael developed a love for cycling while working with a research team in the Netherlands. After returning home to the US, he continued to train and participate in several charity cycling events including the MS 150 ride from Houston to Austin, and the 1Mission Bikes Fight Poverty ride from Phoenix to Puerto Penasco, Mexico.
Our Mission
As a natural fit for Michael’s talent and hobby, we will be hosting the 4th Annual Cycle for Michael bike ride to raise funds for The Real Decent Foundation. We have partnered with the University of Michigan Engineering School to create the Michael B. La Marca Energy Innovation award which is rewarded to students focused in renewable energy at Michael's alma mater. With your support, we have been able to raise over $50,000 to date! We look forward to continuing to grow the foundation and the award with you each year through the Cycle for Michael ride!
Wherever you are, whenever you can, how ever long you want... Join us on August 18th as we ride again!
How do we raise funds
Personal Donations
Your individual donations are greatly appreciated and help fund the Michael B. La Marca Energy Innovation award.
Annual Cycle for Michael Event
Our annual bike ride is the main fundraising event where over annually over 50 bike riders across the US ride 8.88 miles in Michael's memory
Corporate Donations
Corporate donations and matching a large reason we have been able to raise over $50,000. You may not know, but your company may match our your donation doubling the impact.
Our Achievements
4
Years Established
3
Cycle for Michael Events
120+
Bike Riders
$50,000+
Raised
Partnered with
