Dear Friend,
With the tragic and uncertain events unfolding in Afghanistan, please consider donating to Beyond the Bike. This is the 20th Anniversary Commemorative Ride to mark the 9/11 attacks and the commitment to better the lives of Afghan widows and their children through developing sustainable livelihoods.
I am participating as a volunteer in Beyond the Bike — a very special bike ride from Ground Zero to Boston to benefit the phenomenal organization, Beyond the 11th. The funds we raise will directly support vulnerable widows in Afghanistan — a population that was pushed out of the spotlight years ago and remains deeply disenfranchised.
Beyond the 11th began as a 9/11 widow's remarkable response to unspeakable loss. Shortly after Susan Retik’s husband David was killed on the first plane to hit the World Trade Center, my good friend opened her heart to Afghan widows. Her efforts have not stopped in the two decades since.
Susan’s peers in Afghanistan did not receive the initial outpouring of love and support that embraced her here in the United States. In fact, Afghan widows lose all social standing and have no insurance or safety net. 85% of these women are illiterate. Beyond the 11th has helped thousands of these forgotten women learn job skills so that they can support their families and educate their children—the dream of mothers everywhere.
The case for championing women’s rights in Afghanistan cannot be overstated. According to Time magazine (Dec. 8, 2018), Afghanistan still ranks as the worst place in the world to be a woman. After decades of war, terrorism, and insurgency, women and children still suffer disproportionately.
During this complex and difficult time, our hearts and our every thought are with the people of Afghanistan. We are in contact with our partners on the ground (including CARE which has been there for decades). We can assure you that all donations will go directly to those who need it most. Since 2003, Beyond the 11th has made over $1,000,000 in grants that directly assist Afghan widows in developing sustainable livelihoods.
So what can you do during these difficult times?
I would be honored and grateful if you would support me with a donation. Your gift is tax-deductible and could be doubled if your company has a matching gift program.
Your contribution will go far and any size is greatly appreciated.
With gratitude, Karen