CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Former NASCAR driver Kyle Petty is known for his time on the race track and for his generous charity work. He's gearing up for the annual Kyle Petty Charity Ride and this is a milestone year. 

• This year will mark 25 years for the cross-country motorcycle ride
• Donations would go to charities and children's hospitals around the country
• Since 2004, the ride has raised more than $18 million for Victory Junction

This year's ride will mark 25 years for the cross-country motorcycle ride. The ride started in 1994, and donations would go to charities and children's hospitals around the country.

Since 2004, the ride has raised more than $18 million for Victory Junction, a camp for children with illnesses and special needs. The Petty family opened Victory Junction in 2004 after the tragic death of Petty's son, Adam. 

To mark the 25th anniversary of the ride, the route is taking motorcycle riders on a corner-to-corner trip from Seattle, WA to Key Largo, FL. 

Petty says while the ride is a memorable experience, it's all about making sure the Victory Junction campers have a place to go where they can relax, and just be kids.  

“You see a kid catch a fish for the first time, or you see a kid do the ropes course, or ride a horse for the first time. That’s incredibly special, and that’s priceless," Petty said. 

This year's ride departs from Seattle on May 3, and will end in Key Largo on May 11. For more information about the event, click here.