A new charity initiative, the Tour de Friendship, is set to take place on November 9, 2023, in Boca Raton, featuring a challenging 60-mile bike ride to benefit local families with special needs. Organized by Rabbi Sholom Kessler, this inaugural event aims to raise funds for the Friendship House, a nonprofit organization serving approximately 70 families in the area.
The ride will commence with a light kosher breakfast and ceremonial send-off at the Friendship House campus, located at 17950 N. Military Trail. Participants will pedal along the scenic State Road A1A towards Palm Beach before returning to the starting point. Organizers have planned breaks every 15 miles, providing refreshments, bike support, and time for riders to refuel.
Building an Inclusive Community
Founded in 2020, the Friendship House operates under the auspices of Chabad of Central Boca Raton, focusing on creating an inclusive environment for individuals with special needs. Rabbi Kessler emphasizes the importance of visibility and community integration for these individuals. “Oftentimes, children with special needs are overlooked and we are here to change that,” he stated. “As a rabbi, I feel that individuals with special needs have a strong influence and a great capacity to impact others.”
All proceeds from the Tour de Friendship will support year-round programming for young adults and children, helping the organization expand its reach. Kessler sees the event as an opportunity for the Boca community to unite in a shared purpose. “It’s an opportunity for the Boca community to come together, not just in support, but in shared purpose,” he explained.
Registration and Participation Details
Participants are encouraged to raise $1,500 each, with all funds directly benefiting the Friendship House. Each rider will receive a Tour de Friendship bike jersey upon completion of the ride. Interested individuals can register at tourdefriendship.com, where they can also create fundraising campaigns, volunteer, or make donations.
While skill levels vary, Kessler notes that the ride is designed to accommodate all participants. Cyclists can bring their own equipment or rent a bike for the day. Although the ride will take approximately four to five hours, many cyclists have been training in preparation for the event, fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants.
Rabbi Kessler has been leading training sessions on Sundays, emphasizing the value of the ride in raising funds for special needs. “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 after, it makes them a part of it,” he said. “They get to see the impact of the program first-hand and the community gets to see the people riding for them.”
The Tour de Friendship not only aims to gather support for a worthy cause but also strives to foster understanding and acceptance within the community. It invites all members of Boca Raton to participate in this meaningful event.
Event Details:
What: Tour de Friendship, supporting Friendship House
When: Sunday, November 9, 2023, 8 a.m. – light kosher breakfast and rider send-off; 2 p.m. – finish line celebration
Where: Start and finish at Friendship House, 17950 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton
Information: tourdefriendship.com
