Alongside Newswatch 16 weekend anchor Chelsea Strub and his supporters, Snedeker went live on WNEP 16 from the Lockport Boat Launch to commence Go Joe 27. He is taking to the winding roads of northeastern and central Pennsylvania, yet again, to raise much-needed funds for St. Joseph’s Center in Scranton.

The kickoff featured antics including an inflatable flamingo fight, a performance by the Central Mountain Majorettes, squats with Full Body Health and Fitness, quality time with blow-up sharks from Renovo and food and coffee provided by JB Festies Foods and Avenue 209 Coffee House.

Founded in 1888, St. Joseph’s has served individuals with developmental challenges and their families, as well as persons seeking maternity and adoption services for over 100 years.

Their main facility accommodates individuals with severe developmental disabilities, physical challenges, sensory impairment and significant medical conditions. Additionally, Saint Joseph’s provides residential care at 13 satellite homes for those in more medically stable conditions. Each of these homes are tailored to meet the unique needs of their residents.

ASHTON PETERS/FOR THE EXPRESS Dozens of individuals put on their best inflatable costumes to take part in the Go Joe fundraiser kick off at the Lockport Boat Launch on Monday morning.

“The proceeds of all of our fundraising really allow us to do all that — make building improvements, purchase equipment and create those opportunities that add a lot to the people we support,” said Sister Maryalice Jacquinot, IHM president & CEO, Saint Joseph’s Center.

Snedeker said the center is “a group that provides so many rewarding results for so many people and communities.”

That is why he puts himself through this test of endurance each year, he said, adding that it’s an honor to be associated with St. Joseph’s and their work.

“If you went there, you’d fall apart in tears. And I think everyone senses that, and that’s why they do this,” said Snedeker.

Lock Haven Catholic School Principal Sarah Hanson, who was up early supporting Joe’s ride and St. Joseph’s said, “It’s such a great institution and organization helping kids with disabilities.”

ASHTON PETERS/FOR THE EXPRESS WNEP's Joe Snedeker and Chelsea Strub are pictured during the Lock Haven City Summer Concert Series on Sunday evening.

For her, as a Catholic, showing up is “just part of being part of the community and being part of a universal faith,” she said.

“Joe came on board 27 years ago to do the bike ride, and he’s been very enthusiastic and continues to get corporate sponsors. But really, the success of this is the corporate sponsors who inspire grassroots donations,” said Jacquinot.

Sister Maryalice says the caring people who contribute whatever they can are those who make a real difference for the organization.

Go Joe 27 is sponsored by AJ’s Bar & Grill and Friends; Burne Honda, William E. Chatlos, The Crafty Decorator, Cooper’s Seafood House, Dunkin’, Greg Fleck, Jerry’s For All Seasons, Lehigh Valley Hospital – Dickson City, M&T Bank, Mrs. T’s Pierogies, Modern Gas, Pipefitters and Plumbers Union 524, Schott-NA, State Correctional Institute – Coal Twp., Shore Forest Campground and Wayne County Redi-Mix.

“We’ve probably raised thousands, if not tens of thousands, with this group here and all of the Lock Haven community,” said Snedeker.

ASHTON PETERS/FOR THE EXPRESS Avenue 209 Coffee House helped keep everyone wide awake during the kick off event.

He was referring, in part, to the crowd of locals — many dressed in shirts adorned with his face and/or inflatable costumes, ranging in form from dinosaurs to flamingos to sharks.

Donations are being accepted from across WNEP 16’s coverage region in northeastern and central Pa.

“At 5 a.m., 4 a.m. people were out here and having a great time. I think that’s what’s really, really fun to see, everybody picking up on the theme — inflate and donate — and just having a great time and building community,” said Jacuinot.

Snedeker said Lock Haven seemed to come alive for the kickoff broadcast.

One of the attendees, Jenny Peters, of Lamar, is a regular viewer of Newswatch 16 and a big fan of Snedeker’s.

“I got up this morning at 4 a.m. to come on down to see Joe Snedeker. I watch him every morning, and I’ve been really looking forward to this,” she said. “He’s a crazy nut, and he makes everything interesting. He makes the weather interesting, makes the morning show interesting, so I really like him.”

Another attendee, Brianne Bailey joked with her friends, “This is the first time in three months I’ve gotten out of bed without hitting snooze!”

Over the years, Go Joe has grown to a scale Snedeker never imagined.

“If you go back 27 years, I used to organize the whole thing, every town, every stop and then it became this extravaganza, and now it’s out of my hands,” he said.

After the kickoff, Joe rode from Lock Haven through Avis, Jersey Shore, Linden, Newberry, Duboistown, Williamsport and South Williamsport to Loyalsock Township.

He then continued his journey Monday, biking from the Hughesville Volunteer Fire Department to Milton Monday afternoon.

Day 2, July 23, Joe will travel from Mifflinburg to Mount Carmel Town Park. Wednesday, July 24, he will bike from Sacramento to Cressona Picnic Grove, then from Frackville Memorial Park to Nesquehoning. Thursday, day 4, will see Snedecker biking from Freeland, Tim Martin Square, to Washingtonville and Friday, day 5, he will travel from Carbondale to Marywood University, rounding out his trip.

Those interested in donating may text JOE to 570-826-1616.

To learn more about Go Joe 27 and see if you’re on his bike route, visit www.wnep.com/gojoe.