$25K Raised for Chabad's Friendship Circle

Nearly 250 people recently helped The Jean Fischman Chabad Center raise more than $25,000 and awareness for its Friendship Circle of the Five Towns at the second annual Bike4Friendship.

The Friendship Circle, a non-profit organization founded in 2004, partners children with special needs with teen volunteers to participate in recreational, Judaic, social and educational programs. The funds raised from this bike ride will help expand the services and activities that The Friendship Circle offers the community.

“It was a humbling experience to be a part of something so large, and bike for such a great cause,” said Friendship Circle director Batsheva Borenstein. “I am truly amazed at the outpouring of support from the community, and wish I could thank each person individually for being a part of our circle.”

This year, the new 10K bike ride and the family walk were completed by volunteers and supporters who braved the challenge and collectively raised more than $25,700. All funds directly benefit individuals with special needs and their families.

Participants were addressed by Five Towns Chabad Executive Director Rabbi Zalman Wolowik, who expressed his gratitude to the sponsors, volunteers and all those who have participated to show support for this cause.

The team that raised the most money was the Spector Family, while the first cyclist  to cross the finish line was Shlomy Hartstein.

To donate or sponsor a cyclist, visit www.Bike4friends.com. For more information about the Friendship Circle and pictures, check out www.FC5towns.com.