First Ever South Jerusalem ‘Friendship Cycle’ Celebrates Inclusion

Photo and Video Credits: Ben Bresky

On June 1st, 2022, twenty six energetic cyclists set out from Jerusalem’s historic First Station for a thrilling bike ride with Kosher Cycle Tours, led by Rabbi Aaron Hurwitz, for the first ever South Jerusalem Friendship Cycle!

The event, which culminated in a festive barbecue at the Ein Lavan nature reserve, was to celebrate over 12 years of friendship and inclusion at the Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem, directed by Rabbi Avraham and
Nechama Dina Hendel of Chabad of Baka.

Video of Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem:

Ein Lavan, meaning White Spring, boasts natural pools, and, while still within the city of Jerusalem, feels like a completely different world. Families of kids with special needs and volunteers who have been spending quality time with their special buddies on a weekly basis enjoyed the delicious dinner and other attractions prepared for them at Ein Lavan, including a petting zoo, archery station, and interactive sports with basketball star and coach, Tamir Goodman.

An added highlight was the Bas Mitzvah celebration of Friendship Circle member, Halleli Markowitz, who glowed with delight at the helium balloons, singing, and surprise dessert in her honor.

Amongst the riders were Friendship Circle and Chabad of Baka community members of all ages. A large number of cyclists were students from Ohr Olam Yeshiva, who are devoted volunteers in the Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem. One of their directors, Yehudah Lipkind, joined in the ride, while Rabbi Moshe Gitler cheered them on from behind the scenes.

Riding through the Mesila Park on Jerusalem’s longest bike path, the riders cycled past the Biblical Zoo, before heading up and through the Ein Lavan nature reserve. The riders ascended up the very steep incline to Yad Kennedy, culminating at the Israeli memorial and tribute to President John F. Kennedy. After the barbecue at Ein Lavan, the cyclists returned to First Station, exhausted but exhilarated, knowing that they had raised funds for a great cause, while having one of their greatest Israel experiences.

One-minute video of the thrilling Friendship Cycle:

Haven Plumbers, Red Heifer Steakhouse, and The Raw Stone were sponsors of the event, and many others contributed to support the cyclists and the great work of Friendship Circle.

A reporter from Jerusalem Post participated in the event and covered it in their magazine.

To find out more about the Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem or to donate, visit chabadofbaka.com