NORFOLK, Neb. -- Naresh Kumar stopped in Norfolk, Nebraska on Tuesday as he bikes across the country to raise awareness and funding for education regarding human trafficking.
 
“Our freedom is the highest form of living and that’s what 50 million people in the world don’t have right now,” Kumar said.
 
The CEO of Freedom Seat and an Ultra Endurance Athlete began his ride in Oregon and will travel to Washington D.C. 
 
“If we can stop it from happening, then we don’t have to go rescue and rehabilitate,” Kumar said.
 
The challenges Kumar has experienced throughout the trip is his way of showing the importance of the cause. He pedals a tandem bicycle, which he named "Kindness."
 
Throughout his trip, Kumar has met many strangers and told them his story. He invites people to take the second seat on the bike as a way for them to feel connected to the cause.
 
“We are on an adventure so that it’s not a, ‘he’s doing it,’ but we are doing it together,” Kumar said.
 
According to Kumar, many restaurants and gas stations have not taken money from him. Some have accepted hugs as payment.
 
“As much as they call this a solo and unsupported journey, I’m supported by those thousands of kind souls out there who pull over and ask if you want water and food,” Kumar said.
 
With the long hours on the bike, Kumar was provided with a refresh in Nebraska. His wife’s aunt lives near Norfolk and he was able to enjoy a homemade meal for the first time in days.
 
According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 1034 victims have been affected in 479 cases since 2007 in Nebraska. The money raised goes to Rotary Action Group Against Slavery (RAGAS) and 3Strands Global Foundation. The goal is to raise $250,000 to fund prevention education to help eliminate trafficking crimes. To follow Kumar's journey, visit Pedaling 4 Freedom's website.