Dear Friends,

While I'm not a farmer myself, I have deep admiration and appreciation for the work that farmers do: how beautiful it is, the glory of hard work transforming into harvest, the ways that it gives life to our community.

I am similarly not a biker; and yet for years now I've had the honor and pleasure of witnessing – and supporting – the many members of our community who have participated in Hazon bike rides. 
Since 2008, I, personally, have served as a crew member to Hazon bike rides in New York, in the San Francisco Bay Area, and in Israel, watching community members just like you (and perhaps including you) traverse amazing vistas, experience life-changing transformations, and support sustainable communities, a healthier environment, and – in the case of the Arava Institute & Hazon Israel Ride – a more peaceful world.

And perhaps the most surprising thing to me about attending Hazon bike rides is how they've left me feeling that one day I might be a participant myself. Indeed, most Hazon bike riders don't look like they just came off the Tour de France. Participants come in all shapes, sizes, ages, genders, religious backgrounds, and levels of experience. Some do the whole ride. Some ride a little less.  Some need extra support, which is always ready and waiting. Some opt to work on the crew. And everyone is honored in feeling like part of the same community, together.

As much as Hazon bike riders have moved their pedals, they've moved me; and their fundraising efforts have been a key spoke in Hazon's ability to affect positive and meaningful change in our communities… and in our world.

Below, you will find information about our three 2014 rides: the Hazon Golden Gate Ride, Hazon New York Ride, and Arava Institute & Hazon Israel Ride. Please take a look and consider joining us for one of these amazing experiences this year.

(And, if you'd like a little laugh, click here to see my video greeting to participants at the end of our 2013 Cross USA Ride.)

Best Always,
David Weisberg

"The Golden Gate Ride & Retreat is about building community and connecting with others across the Jewish realm in meaningful ways. The energy on the ride is infectious and I could not help being caught up in the excitement."
—Donna D., 2013 first-time Hazon Rider (and 2014 Ride Planning Committee Member)

• Beautiful bike routes through Marin and Sonoma Counties and across the Golden Gate Bridge
• A vibrant, pluralistic Jewish celebration
• Interesting workshops, activities, community-building, and delicious food
• Sign up for just $199 before registration fees rise to $250 in February

Click here for more information and to register.

"Only in getting to the Ride and learning about the impact Hazon has on people and the natural world, did I feel so inspired to be part of creating change. It touched my life deeply to get on my bike with so much support and ride my heart out for such an important cause. I feel accomplished as a rider, and more inspired to make a difference."
—Sarah B., two-time New York Rider

• Celebrate Shabbat and Labor Day Weekend together at Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Center
• Cycle for two days through the beautiful Berkshires and Hudson Valley
• Support innovative farm, food, environmental, and educational programs like Adamah and Teva
• Register by February 15th for only $150

Click here for more information and to register.

"You will be embarking on an unforgettable life experience you will encounter ideas that will captivate your mind, places and physical beauty you will never forget, and people who will inspire you and capture your heart forever!"
—Margie K., 2013 Israel Rider

• A fun new way to explore Israel with friends and family
• 150 - 350 miles of adventure: choose from multiple routes each day
• Fully supported ride, with touring options available for non-riders
• Support The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies and Hazon in an effort to create a more sustainable world by fostering peace and solving environmental challenges

Click here for more information and to register.