Nearly two months ago, Richard Carey left Vancouver, Wash., on a cross-country bicycle trip to raise money for the freedom to marry and to talk with people across the country about why marriage matters for all loving, committed couples.

Today, he arrived in Maine and visited Mainers United for Marriage, where he was greeted by volunteers.

“The message I carried on my bike, from town to town and through 11 states, was that all committed couples should be able to be married,” Carey said. “This was a personal challenge and a great experience, but it was made better because I was doing it for a cause I really believe in.”

Carey completed his trek today, arriving in Maine after 3,700 miles. He dipped his back wheel in the Pacific Ocean to start the trip, and then dipped his front wheel in the Atlantic Ocean when he arrived on the East Coast.

His trip included stops in three of four states that will have marriage-related questions on the ballot in November: Maine, Minnesota and Washington.

“Richard’s cross-country trip is an impressive display of stamina and commitment, and we are thankful for his support and the work he has done to talk with people across the country and in Maine about why marriage matters,” said Matt McTighe, campaign manager for Mainers United for Marriage. “We’re pleased to welcome Richard to Maine and to congratulate him on an amazing trip.”

The trip raised money for Freedom to Marry and its Win More States Fund, which is a contributor to and coalition partner with Mainers United for Marriage.

Carey, 53, raised about $16,000 for the Win More States Fund during the trip.

Mainers United for Marriage is the coalition to win marriage for all Maine families. A “Yes” vote in November will allow marriage licenses for loving, committed same-sex couples in Maine while also protecting religious freedom.