A new charity bike ride, the Tour de Friendship, will debut on November 9, 2023, in Boca Raton, Florida. This 60-mile event aims to support the Friendship House, a nonprofit organization founded by Rabbi Sholom Kessler in 2020. The initiative focuses on assisting individuals with special needs and their families, fostering an inclusive community.
Rabbi Kessler, who serves as the executive director of Friendship House, emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of children with special needs. “Oftentimes, children with special needs are overlooked, and we are here to change that,” he stated. He believes that by integrating these individuals into the community, they can drive significant change and enrich the lives of those around them.
Currently, the Friendship House serves approximately 70 local families, with aspirations for further expansion. All proceeds from the Tour de Friendship will fund year-round programming aimed at benefiting young adults and children. In addition to raising funds, Kessler views the event as a platform for community engagement and awareness.
“It’s an opportunity for the Boca community to come together, not just in support, but in shared purpose,” Kessler remarked. Participants are encouraged to raise a minimum of $1,500 each. Those who meet this target will receive a customized Tour de Friendship bike jersey. Interested individuals can register online at tourdefriendship.com, where they can set up fundraising campaigns, volunteer, and donate to specific riders or the event itself.
Event Details and Participation
On the day of the ride, participants will gather at the Friendship House campus for a light kosher breakfast and a ceremonial send-off at 8 a.m.. The route will take cyclists along State Road A1A to Palm Beach and then back to the starting point. Riders can expect breaks every 15 miles, providing refreshments, bike support, and time to rest.
Cyclists have the option to bring their own gear or rent a bike for the day. Kessler noted that organizers are striving to accommodate all skill levels, although participants should be prepared for the challenge of a 60-mile trek, which is anticipated to take around four to five hours. While no prior cycling experience is required, many participants have been training for the event.
Kessler himself has been training on Sundays with a small group, fostering a sense of community among riders. “I think the value of riding, and people in the community putting their foot to the pedal to raise funds for special needs and to celebrate afterward, makes them a part of it,” he said. This event allows participants to see the direct impact of the program while also raising awareness within the community.
Join the Cause
The Tour de Friendship not only serves as a fundraising effort but also as a means of uniting the Boca Raton community in support of individuals with special needs. As the inaugural event approaches, Rabbi Kessler invites everyone to participate and contribute to this meaningful cause.
For further information about the Tour de Friendship, visit tourdefriendship.com. Join the movement to create a more inclusive community while enjoying a day of cycling and camaraderie.
