The drive, aspiration and willingness to help others that Farmville resident Taikein Cooper possesses is inspirational.

The young man recently completed his journey riding 508 miles on his bicycle in efforts to raise funds to help fight pediatric cancer.

Not only did Cooper surpass his original goal of raising $500 and riding 500 miles by raising more than $1,000, but he’s been inspired to continue his journey of service to others through cycling.

Setting the example of citizen leadership, Cooper didn’t pocket the donations but split them between the Great Cycle Challenge — an organization working to fight pediatric cancer — and the University of Virginia Children’s Hospital.

Cooper said he cycled in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia during more than 27 rides out of the 30 days in the month.

“Everyone was super friendly when I was out; they shared the road with me,” Cooper said. “It was definitely a communitywide event.”

Just as many have been impressed and inspired by Cooper’s actions and service to others, he too has been impacted by his work as he’s seeking more ways to help his fellow man and woman.

“Every month I’m going to identify a different cause, organization or person that I can ride for,” Cooper said. “There will be some people from the private sector, some community organizers, but I will continue to ride for causes.”

He said beneficiaries could include those who have suffered a house fire, domestic violence awareness advocates or the American Heart Association.

Those seeking inspiration to do good in the Heart of Virginia need look no further than Cooper for an excellent example of citizen leadership.