Conquering Challenges,
One Trail at a Time.

FAQ

General

Geerz is a non-profit organization that has developed and operates a revolutionary therapeutic mountain biking program designed to empower kids struggling with significant challenges such as PTSD, ADD/ADHD, social and behavioral problems, low self-esteem, anger management, family dysfunction, anxiety and eating disorders. We operate dozens of programs for kids in youth villages, alternative education schools, and community groups from periphery towns across the county. Most of our youth riders have been referred to us by educational and mental health professionals and community and spiritual leaders who are familiar with Geerz’ uniquely successful, hands-on alternative education approach.

Recently, we realized that many of the unique elements of our program could be tailored towards IDF veterans who desperately needed effective alternative therapy to deal with the ravages of the long war. Thus, we pioneered our new program for IDF veterans. This program has proven to be a highly innovative and effective tool in combating the devastating trauma, including PTSD, that afflicts so many who fought in the recent war and in earlier conflicts. Thanks to generous supporters like you, Geerz helps give these heroes a huge jump start in reacclimating to civilian life. Our fast-growing programs serve well over 600 kids and soldiers each week and the demand for new programs is explosive. The only barrier to the exponential expansion of our existing programs is funding. That’s why this ride is so critical.

Your participation or support fuels Geerz’s therapeutic biking programs for vulnerable youth and IDF veterans battling a myriad of challenges. Demand is exploding, and funding is the only barrier. Ride with us and give hundreds more the chance to heal, grow, and reclaim their strength.

Join the ride and help change lives.

The Ride

The Get Into Geerz Two-Day Ride is one of a kind. That is because this is the only ride of its kind. The mountain bike trails in Israel can compete with the trail word-wide. Making new friends and professional contacts who are like minded is a true benefit to consider. Joining a charity mountain biking ride for an organization that teaches Israeli youth critical life skills while on mountain bikes is an innovative concept. The ride is fully supported and classy, yet at the same time rugged and tons of fun. 

It is not necessary for adults to get a form signed by a Doctor- however All riders must read carefully and sign the electronic Health Declaration form- appearing on website during registration process.

Not to worry.  Even if you are new to cycling, the Geerz ride has the perfect route for you. This ride is for everyone, from hardcore technical enthusiasts to newbies looking to expand their horizons. Geerz offers seven different route options, consisting of: beginner, intermediate, and advanced level routes. If you feel like the track you have chosen is not optimal for you, you can always switch mid-ride. There is plenty of technical single track if you are looking for that while other routes are based on stunning rolling jeep trails. So whether you want to take it easy or challenge yourself, we promise to provide you with an unforgettable experience along some of the most magnificent trails you will ever encounter. 
The Geerz Ride is a mountain biking experience. Aside from some small connecting sections on the road between trails, all our riding is off-road, both on jeep trails and single-track terrain. In order to ride, you will need a mountain bike with at least a front shock and 21 gears. While there are many different levels of mountain bikes, we recommend a decent quality mountain bike that is in excellent working condition and that is capable of handling 60-100  km of rugged biking trails over a two-day period. If your current bike does not fit this description, we will be happy to arrange a good rental bike for you for the ride. 
  • Two days of fully supported mountain biking in Israel
  • All meals & accommodations included
  • Two custom Get Into Geerz ride jerseys and socks, a halo, gloves, water bottle, and other surprise swag
  • Daily nutritional pack including protein and electrolyte supplements
To maximize your enjoyment of the Geerz ride, you will want to be in good riding shape. Of course, we have route options for all levels of riders but it’s a good idea for you to cycle twice a week over a two to three-month period with rides ranging between 1-2 hours. If you are out of shape or new to cycling, we suggest at least a three-month plan prior to the ride. This should be plenty of time to get in solid riding shape. If you want more specific training guidance, just reach out to us and we will be happy to craft a tailor-made plan for you.
Yes, Geerz has been working closely with a local bike shop for almost ten years. Anything that you may need for The Get Into Geerz Two-Day Ride, we can help you attain. 

Fundraising

Although fundraising can sound intimidating if you have never done it before, you should know that it’s a lot easier than you think and most first timers are amazed at how receptive people are to supporting their efforts. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel.  We have excellent materials that you can use to reach out to your potential sponsors. If you need more personal guidance, it will be our pleasure to help you create and personalize your fundraising page and tailor your pitch to your friends, contacts and relatives. We can definitely help you  reach your fundraising goal. 

However, we understand if you  are hesitant to commit because you might not reach your goal. This very rarely happens. But in the unlikely event that you fall short, we will work with you to create a very reasonable payment plan that works for you. 

Once registered with a non-refundable $100 registration fee, your spot in the Get Into Geerz Two-Day Ride is reserved. Riders are committing themselves to raise or pay (give or get) a minimum of $3,600. We will provide you with the tools needed to reach out to your friends, family and coleagues for sponsorship and support. If your employer has a gift matching program, please let us know so that we can determine how this might be able to boost your fundraising efforts.


Once registered with a non-refundable $100 registration fee, your spot in the Get Into Geerz Two-Day Ride is reserved. Riders are committing themselves to raise or pay (give or get) a minimum of $3,600. We will provide you with the tools needed to reach out to your friends, family and coleagues for sponsorship and support. If your employer has a gift matching program, please let us know so that we can determine how this might be able to boost your fundraising efforts.

We understand that life happens, and due to extenuating circumstances you may need to withdraw from the ride. If this should happen, we will work out an arrangement that is agreeable to both you and us. However, if last year is any indication, you are going to miss an amazing ride and we'll surely miss you!

Withdrawal schedule / commitment:
Withdrawing your registration after January 15th commits you to cover logistical costs for the ride of $695 total (an additional $595 + $100 registration fee that you already paid).

Withdrawing your registration after February 28th commits you to the full $3,600 give or get.

Fully tax deductible donations can be made in:

  • US $
  • NIS
  • Australian
  • Canadian
  • UK

You will be pleasantly surprised to see that fundraising for Geerz is not difficult and it is even fun! Once you sign up, you'll receive a personal fundraising page with a link for you to send to your potential sponsors. When someone sponsors you, you will automatically receive a notice so that you can thank your sponsor and the sponsor receives an automatically generated thank you letter and receipt from Geerz. Your fundraising total will continuously update each time you receive a new donation. We will also provide you with lots of proven fundraising tips and ideas which will help you fundraise amongst your family, friends, business associates, etc. as well as letters, texts and Geerz success stories  to assist your efforts. Of course, we are always available to help you tailor your pitch and maximize your efforts. You will be amazed at how supportive and receptive people are to contribute to your campaign on behalf of this wonderful organization.

It is extremely easy to make donations with the Geerz website using any major credit card. Checks may be mailed to the Geerz office together with the check processing form which you can download on the website (on the left side menu when logged in). Donors can also make donations using their DAF, bank transfer, ACH, and wire. When someone sponsors you, you will automatically receive a notice so that you can thank your sponsor and the sponsor receives an automatically generated thank you letter and receipt from Geerz. 

We have a clear page explaining all the different ways to donate on our website. 

If your question doesn't appear on this page, feel free to contact us.