The former Bostonians’ recently launched Cycle for Unity (http://cycleforunity.org/) is in gear to revolutionize Jewish activism and philanthropy. He rolled out this initiative to get young adults and professionals excited about connecting to charities, both Jewish and ecumenical through inspirational and challenging cycling adventures.
Solomont says Cycle for Unity is the first-ever non-profit organization utilizing physical fitness and leadership training to promote the culture of Jewish philanthropy. More than 200 riders from Israel, the United States, Holland, the United Kingdom and Australia have taken part in the first series of rides in Israel. Registration requires a commitment to raise money for charity.
Cycle for Unity participants to choose their own charitable beneficiary. This charity of choice model currently benefits over 50 charities (http://cycleforunity.org/organizations) including some of the largest Jewish non-profits in North America and Israel.
“Bike riding is one of the most poplar activities in the world. So why not capitalize on its popularity, the health benefits, emotional growth, confidence and discipline one gains from riding and training to raise funds for charity!” “Cycle for Unity helps support multiple charities simultaneously and complements all their initiatives. When everyone participates together, people learn about different organizations and all the good and important things they are doing— a cross-pollination that benefits everybody. A win-win-win!”
CFU is sponsoring a ten-day deluxe kosher bike tour to Tuscany in May for adults, rides in Israel in April, family rides over Passover and CFU’s flagship “Ride of My Life” summer European Summer cycling adventure for high school students. (http://cycleforunity.org/rides/the-ride-of-my-life) The Ride of My Life is the ultimate experiential adventure through Prague, Vienna, Budapest and Israel that combines leadership, athletic challenge, Jewish education and fun.
“CFU programs aren’t a ‘one-hit wonder.’ When people work hard and challenge themselves for a cause, they become passionate and get others to feel the same way.” CFU’s unique formula churns out dynamic “doers” who are primed to improve themselves – mind, body and soul – and are genuinely passionate about their Jewish heritage and repairing the world.
Solomont is targeting what he calls “kinesthetic Jews,” who actively seek self-improvement and expression through a combination of physical challenges, community service, advocacy and philanthropy.
Solomont is a former nursing home administrator, regional executive director for the Orthodox Union’s NCSY youth movement, and most recently, the director of Yeshiva University’s Israel program.
Cycle for Unity, he says, seeks to cultivate an international network of youth and professionals who are excited about personal growth and communal development. “Cycle for Unity is not an ideology, but a hope and a dream to have something that really reflects what our community is and be beneficial to everybody,” says Solomont. “There is so much that divides us, so if we can find something that unites us, it will really be Cycle for Unity.”
For more information on CFU programs, point your web browser to www.cycleforunity.org or contact info@cycleforunity.org
Contact Ari Solomont -
ari@cycleforunity.org
617-830-2682 or +972-52-866-4043
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