Three groups with big hearts - and big bikes - did big things for big causes here in May.

Motorcycle enthusiasts are in the forefront of charitable fund raising in many cases, but rarely get enough credit for the good work they do while enjoying their two-wheeled hobby.

That’s why it’s time to recognize and say thanks to the Southern Cruisers Riding Club, Bike Riders for Christ and Defenders of Defenders, organizers of the May events.

The Southern Cruisers Riding Club held its second annual Bikers on Main event on May 30 in downtown LaGrange, raising more than $4,000 for Harmony House, the local domestic violence shelter. The family-oriented event included a “Poker Run” motorcycle ride that attracted almost 1,000 riders and a well-attended festival on Lafayette Square.

Bike Riders for Christ held a benefit for the Troup County Baptist associational Vacation Bible School mission to Montana. The May 30 event at Long Cane Baptist Church took riders to Pine Mountain, Dowell’s Knob and Roosevelt State Park and coincided with a hamburger cookout and yard sale for the same cause, also at Long Cane Baptist Church.

The Whitetail Pub on Roanoke Road hosted the DAD group’s first annual benefit motorcycle ride on May 16 and raised more than $3,600 to benefit needy and homeless veterans in the West Georgia and East Alabama areas. The ride began with a breakfast, closed with a chicken barbecue and included daylong activities, including horse shoes, games, vendors and music.

These groups had help from business sponsors and concerned individuals who gave time and money to ensure their success.

A big VROOOM of thanks to the bikers who continue to shatter stereotypes on the way to helping worthy causes in tight times.