It is an honor to share that I will be participating in the 2019 Israel Ride to benefit the Arava Institute and Hazon.
I will be cycling from Jerusalem to Eilat, between 150 and 350 miles, along with more than 180 fellow riders, exploring Israel and learning about the work of two great organizations, the Arava Institute for Environmental Studies and Hazon.
The Arava Institute contributes towards two missions that are especially timely:
These two important issues are rarely addressed by a single initative, and yet it seems so natural that building a coalition of diverse individuals is essential to responding to climate change and preserving our planet. This is why I'm committed to participating in the Israel Ride and using it as an opportunity to educate myself and others about the important work of the Arava Institute.
Perhaps, like me, you are frustrated listening to divisive rhetoric and endless sparring between opposing groups in nearly every sphere of our society.
Maybe, like me, you are frightened as you read reports about the deterioration of our environment and depletion of our resources.
And if, like me, these phenomena do not leave you in despair, but instead motivate you to build a more promising future, I ask you to read about the Arava Institute, and consider supporting my cause with a donation or by joining me for a training ride this year.
I have committed to raise at least $3,000 towards this cause, and your contribution is greatly appreciated. Would you consider making a donation at whatever level you are able? All contributions are greatly appreciated.
Thanks for your support!
Ride Updates:
Topics
...I'm leaving today! Hello, I write to you from Terminal 4 at JFK, where my dad (Mel Simon) and my uncle (Ken Simon) have been sharing all their wisdom and tales from past rides--from 45 MPH winds to lost luggage to bike collisions. All very good for my nerves, of course. I can't help but reflect on the last several months. There have been bike trips to Long Beach and Westchester; there has been a flat tire, and there has been sand in my gears; there has been a lot of sweating. Through it all, I've had a lot of cheerleaders (and not just those representing UHart and Union). While I've been training and soliciting you all for donations, things have been heating up--literally and figuratively. We saw the hottest July on record. We watched (and are watching still) the aftermath of tumultuous storms and devastating fires that have left our fellow humans without homes, security, and even loved ones. We witnessed some of the world's largest demonstrations for action on climate change. Thank you for helping me take action, even in this very small way, to commit to a future in which humanity can work together in peace to repair our world. I ride for all of us and our planet's future. In a couple hours, I will fly off to Israel, where I expect to face enormous physical and emotional challenges as I tackle this ride. I will not carry much with me as I ride, but I'll be sure to keep each of your well-wishes in my back pocket. I'll post updates when I can! K
by Kira Simon on Sun, Nov 03, 2019 @ 2:44 PM Permanent Link No Comments