Be the change you wish to see in the world: one small HIking fundraiser at a time
When Gandhi provided the golden standard of call-to-actions, “be the change you wish to see in the world,” it resonated with not only me, but also the world. As humans we are emotionally motivated to support others and often in a pay-it-forward fashion. Brooke, the Rural Gone Urban Foundation founding board chair, identified key areas to apply PIF to make changes that support the Foundation’s mission of supporting strong women doing brave things: Scholarships for B & C Students, Small Business Grants, and Love Bombs.
While supporting these endeavors can look different in your eyes, as it has for myself, the beauty is, we can all work together toward a common goal
My Why For Fundraising
In April 2022, it was those around us - family, friends, close friends and even those we didn’t know well, who stepped up to care and support my family. Undergoing life-saving surgery, necessary due Crohn’s disease, had initially brought hope for a brighter future. There was risk. Major complications occur in 3-10 percent of patients. Weighing such possibility wasn’t a luxury afforded.
A track record 26 years in the making, overcoming hurdles without help had become a regular mindset. This particular situation was different. I was one of the lucky 3-10 percent learning that near end-of-life is a humbling place. Have you ever found yourself in a place where you’ve needed help, however, it feels like a heavy imposition?
Laying in a hospital bed for weeks causes a void in the family. Turning away offerings of help simply wasn’t an option. The cheerleaders came in droves providing food, gift cards, books, comfort gifts to assist in transitioning to a new way of life, financial support, and a full calendar of meals and visits. It would be impossible to return the thoughtfulness and red carpet generosity that has extended.
Part of ongoing recovery or my new normal is ensuring my body keeps moving within limits. Mentally and emotionally, I’m on a mission to pay kindness and generosity forward. Combining the two goals has been a natural pairing. The first month began as a St. Jude Squat Challenge raising $600. It was a simple fundraiser for a meaningful cause.Since that time, projects like a 5K and a Yoga Challenge have been incorporated.
I’d Hike That: An Individual Fundraiser Supporting the Rural Gone Urban Foundation
I’m challenging you to join me by:
Hiking 25 miles between April 5-April 30
Or, following along and creating your own small fundraiser for Rural Gone Urban Foundation.
All fundraising efforts will grow to incorporate Brooke's mission of investing in strong women doing brave things while meeting my own goals.
Hike It for Rural Gone Urban Foundation to support Brooke, someone who has been supporting me for years adds a third prong to my own goals.
How to Hike It for Rural Gone Urban Foundation
Hike it for Rural Gone Foundation by asking others sponsor you in hiking 25 miles April 5-April 30 by going here to donate. At checkout, direct donors to include your name and Hike it! in the Additional Information field.That’s it, so simple!
Then, go to your favorite social media channel and begin talking about it! Here’s an example:
“Hey everyone! In April I’m challenging myself to hiking 25 miles to benefit the Rural Gone Urban Foundation. Please support me and follow my __________ account for updates as I complete the challenge.”
