BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- The story of Angelo Mendoza Jr., the 4-year-old boy whose eyes were badly damaged allegedly by his father, has touched the lives of thousands of people.

Many people have been looking for some way to help the little boy live a life he never expected to have.

On Sunday, hundreds got the chance to help out by hitting the road.

"When someone asks you for your help, the only choice you got is to help," said Billy Punt, who is one of the organizers of the "Ride For Baby Angel" motorcycle run.

Like a cavalry charging to the rescue, more than 560 bikers mounted their rides and took to the road.

Just like the soldiers of a cavalry, the riders had a purpose - to help the little boy named Angel.

The motorcycle riders certainly rallied.

"No holding back," Punt said of the riders efforts. "They had no questions about it, they just want to jump in and help."

One Bakersfield motorcycle club, Bikers Against Child Abuse, took part in Sunday's run. Club member, "Lefty," said they had to be there.

"(Angelo) is exactly what we're riding for," Lefty said. "We ride for a purpose, and that's to protect children."

The motorcycle run was raising money to help pay for Angelo's future medical expenses and any items he'll need to adjust to his new life.

The run was a fun time for all who took part, but the purpose of the event was on the minds of everyone there.

When asked why she showed up, Elva Rubio simply said, "I'm here for little Angel."

"Hard not to be touched," Paul Anthony said of Angelo's story. "Sad to hear that and just great to see so many bikes out (and) so many people supporting this."

The motorcyclists have launched a Web site, Forever Changed. Donations can be made online.