Central Illinois motorcyclists are honoring those who died in the line of duty while raising money for the families left behind.

The 12th annual Peace Keepers ride raises money for the Illinois Military Family relief fund.

This year's ride kicked off at Camp Lincoln before heading to South Jacksonville in memory of police officer Scot Fitzgerald.

Then the ride continued through Pleasant Plains to recognize fallen solider Joshua Powell.

With recent police shootings throughout the country, organizers say now is the time to show support of deserving officers.

"Look at what's happening around us. We need to continue to show support. We understand that there are bad people in every organization and in every group, but today isn't about that. Today's about the support and honoring our military families," said Mylas Copeland, president of Peace Keepers Ride Incorporated.

Copeland says this year's goal was $35,000

Nearly 250 motorcyclists joined in the ride.