New Jersey olim geared up for a meaningful journey—one that combined endurance, community, and a powerful mission to support Israeli youth affected by trauma. From March 23-25, these riders took part in the ninth annual Geerz Israel Charity Ride, a grueling two-day, 80-mile mountain biking challenge dedicated to raising critical funds for children impacted by war and hardship.
Among the more than 100 participants were many New Jersey olim including Mark Chass, who rode to sponsor a Geerz group in the Gaza Envelope in honor of his son-in-law Lior Sivan HY”D, a tank commander killed in Gaza. Other New Jersey riders included Ron Tovbin, Eric Distenfeld, Richard Gertler, Sender Gross, Yaakov Rosenberg, Zev Berkowitz, Rob Ernst, Nathan Hyman, David Jacobi, Danny Morris and Gavri Slasky. Geerz riders pushed their limits on Israel’s rugged trails near the Dead Sea, embodying the resilience and determination that define the youth they are riding for.
An Innovative Approach to Healing
The Geerz program is not just about cycling, it’s about changing lives. As Israel’s leading therapeutic mountain biking initiative, Geerz’s groundbreaking program leverages the healing power of sports and nature to help children gain skills to cope with anxiety, depression and trauma. By navigating Israel’s breathtaking yet challenging trails and using the Geerz lessons off the trail, young participants learn to navigate their own personal struggles, developing resilience, confidence and emotional regulation along the way.
“Riding ‘uneven terrain’ is not just about mountain biking,” said Geerz founder Nachum Wasosky. “It’s about helping these kids navigate the instability in their lives, build confidence and regain their strength. We can’t avoid challenges in life, but we can build ourselves up to handle them.”
New Jersey’s Connection To a Critical Cause
For these former New Jersey riders, this event is personal. Many of them have benefited from the impact of mountain biking firsthand, are personally involved in the program, and their commitment to supporting Geerz reflects the values of Jewish New Jersey’s warm, tight-knit communities.
Sender Gross, a longtime supporter and rider, emphasized the urgency of this year’s ride. “After October 7, the need for trauma support skyrocketed. Geerz stepped up immediately to offer its proven program to displaced and at-risk youth, helping them rebuild a sense of stability and hope. I’m honored to be part of something so impactful.”
Expanding to Meet an Urgent Need
Since the events of Oct. 7, 2023, Geerz has rapidly expanded its services, with 38 therapeutic mountain biking groups now running in youth villages, border communities, special education schools, and afterschool programs. The demand has also extended to returning soldiers, who are now being referred to Geerz as part of comprehensive trauma relief plans.
For displaced families, the program has been a lifeline. “Our eldest joined the Geerz family in Beit Shemesh every Friday,” shared Yechiel and Sarah Kila, who were displaced from southern Israel. “Our son would return from the rides full of strength and joy. The sense of security and belonging Geerz gave him was priceless during such a fragile time.”
How to Support Geerz
Riders, Zionists, mental health advocates and outdoor enthusiasts near and far can help make a difference by supporting Geerz through sponsorships or donations. Funds raised from the event will go directly toward expanding and maintaining Geerz’s vital programs, ensuring that more children and families can benefit from this innovative and effective approach to mental health support.
For those passionate about cycling or community impact, the annual Geerz ride offers an unparalleled experience—blending camaraderie, adventure, and purpose. To show your support for the New Jersey riders, join a future ride, or learn more about the Geerz ride and its mission, visit https://www.geerz.site/get-into-geerz/en/
Arad Enduro track. (Credit: Yoav Lavi)
By rallying behind these 100 riders, New Jersey continues to show that its sense of community extends far beyond state limits—reaching across the globe to uplift those in need.
Tobey Finkelstein is director of advancement at Geerz.
(Credit: Yoav Lavi)
