FAQ

Click on a question to see the answer. If you do not see the answer to your question here or on this page, you can post your question below, or contact Nechama our Program Coordinator at: nechama@geerz.org or 058-766-2212.

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1. What ages and genders is the Geerz program for?

Groups run from age 7 (2nd grade) to 16. (Older youth can contact us about being an assistant instructor.) There are groups for both boys and girls.

2. What cities is Geerz offered in?

This chart shows which cities have Geerz groups this season.

This past year, we had Geerz rides in the following cities: Beit Shemesh, Modiin, Ramat Beit Shemesh Aleph, Ramat Beit Shemesh Gimmel and Sderot.

We also had rides in the following "Children's Villages": Even Shmuel (Neve Landy), Chadera (Talpiot Children's Village), Shomriya, Nes Harim and HaPardess.

In previous years, we had sessions in the following cities, and we may return in the future, depending on demand: Allon Shvut, Efrat, Gush Etzion, Raanana, Mevo Horon, Ramat Raziel and Tzur Hadassah.

3. What language are Geerz rides conducted in?

Most of our groups are run in English and Hebrew, based on the demand of the group's demographic. We have even worked with Ukrainian orphans and ran those groups in Russian.

4. How can I be sure my child will be placed in the group that is right for them?

The youth are all from a variety of schools. Great care and sensitivity are used in creating the riding groups, so that each rider is placed in the appropriate group. If you have a specific request, please make a note in the registration form, and we will do our best to accommodate.

5. During what months does the Geerz program run?

The Geerz Program runs from September through mid/late June, and follows the Ministry of Education calendar.

6. How long is each ride and what exactly happens during the ride?

The rides last 90 minutes. Halfway through, the riders stop to rest their bodies and activate their minds. During this time, the unique Geerz curriculum is taught.

Disclaimer: Geerz is an educational/therapeutic program. We are not training participants to be professional mountain bikers.

7. Are there Geerz rides every week of the season?

We try to have at least 30 rides each season. We email you a schedule of the weeks off at the beginning of the season. You can always check whether your child's group meets any given week at this link.

8. Will the rides conflict with my child's school schedule?

No. All rides are after school.

9. There are no Geerz rides in my area. What can I do?

For more information on how to bring Geerz to your community, please contact admin@geerz.org

10. What time and day do the groups take place?

All Beit Shemesh groups meet on Fridays starting either at 1pm or 1:15pm. For other locations, look at the details advertised for your specific location.

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1. What is the cost of the program?

The cost varies from city to city, and depends on the number of children you are signing up. Click here to learn more.

2. Do I need to pay the entire amount up front?

No. You can sign up and pay a deposit and pay the balance later. Click here for more details.

3. Are there any discounts available?

Yes! There are the following discounts:

An early bird discount for signing up early.
A discount if you sign up more than one child.
A scholarship discount based on financial need.

For more information, please click here.

4. What is the cost if my child joins or leaves in mid-season?

Both of these situations are discussed here.

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1. Who is the program for?

The Geerz riding program is designed for IDF veterans and reserve combat soldiers who served in meaningful combat roles — whether in recent operations or in earlier years. The program is ideal for veterans who feel challenges transitioning from service to civilian life and maintaining a healthy routine, whether or not they have an official diagnosis.

2. How does the program work?

Our program is built on three central pillars:

1. Getting outdoors for physical activity with a group of peers who understand you and 'speak the same language'.

2. Learning control, skills, and developing a sense of accomplishment through the challenges of mountain biking.

3. Building tools for awareness, empowerment, coping with challenges, and emotional regulation — through therapeutic life‑lessons that naturally emerge from riding.

The combination of nature, professional instruction, life‑skills development, and support from dedicated professionals creates a powerful and unique program.

3. How long is the program?

The program takes place weekly and includes 16 sessions, each lasting two hours.

4. What do you get in the session?

At the start of the program, participants receive a mountain bike, helmet, and riding jersey to use throughout the entire program. The bike goes home with you so you can ride independently between sessions.

All sessions are led by certified riding instructors who undergo special training within Geerz to deliver this program specifically for veterans.

5. Do you need prior experience in mountain biking?

It depends on the group. Some groups require no experience at all, and there may also be groups for experienced riders. This will be specified during registration.

6. What equipment do I need?

For groups of active riders: bring your personal equipment.

For groups receiving equipment: all you need is sports clothing and closed shoes.

7. What's the cost of the program?

The cost of the program is only 600₪ (can be paid using the personal treatment grant). 100₪ is paid at time of registration, and the remainder at the start of the program.

8. What happens once the program finishes?

During the program you’ll learn, amongst other things, how to become an independent rider. But that doesn’t mean we’re sending you off for solo rides only.

Graduates join an active community where you can talk with us, receive professional guidance, find riding partners, and get updates about regular rides and meetups open to everyone.