Jan Brownlie
That’s a leading question if ever there was one. We live in challenging times.
Most of you have probably never heard of Room to Read but I’m sure a lot of you know World Expeditions. I’ve travelled and hiked in the far-flung corners of this beautiful planet and I’ve always believed that the way out of poverty for children in developing countries is education. That’s where Room to Read comes in.
Founded in 2000 on the belief that World Change Starts with Educated Children®, Room to Read is creating a world free from illiteracy and gender inequality. They are doing that by helping children in low-income communities develop literacy skills and a habit of reading, and by supporting girls to build skills to succeed in secondary school and negotiate key life decisions.
The Sydney Chapter of Room to Read (where I’ve been a fundraising volunteer for more than 10 years) has joined forces with World Expeditions to bring you the Kozi Challenge. The Challenge is a 22km hike to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko along the Main Range Track, through one of Australia’s most unique landscapes.
Let World Expeditions take you on this guided walk to our highest peak, one of the original seven summits. The trip starts with a BBQ in the evening of 19 November and ends with breakfast on Sunday 21 November. Included in the cost is 2 night’s twin-share accommodation, all your food for the weekend, transport to the start of the walk and back to your accommodation at the end.
Once the trip is guaranteed to depart (we need a minimum of 25 people), then you will need to raise some money Room to Read. The minimum fundraising target is $500 per person. That’s a $50 dollar donation from 10 people – I’m sure you can do it! You’ll be given some ideas on how to fundraise when you book the trip. If you can’t do the walk then consider being a sponsor for someone who is. Every dollar counts.
Please come and join us, get the word out, tell your friends and family, get a team together – this is something positive you can do in these uncertain times to make a real difference. Due to recent surges in COVID-19, particularly in South Asia, children in low-income communities need our support more than ever. With your support, we can help Room to Read ensure learning continues for vulnerable children around the globe.
Will you accept the challenge?