Shane Anthony
Cause: The Salvation Army
Adventure: Salvo’s ANZAC Kokoda Trek 2017
Fundraising Page: Everyday Hero
Social: @adventuresofmulti
As our Fundraiser of the Month, Shane has scored himself a $50 donation to his fundraising page. To be our next month’s winner, make sure you’re uploading your journey to social and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired.
What inspired you to take on your first Inspired Adventure?
To journey the Kokoda Track has been something I have wanted to do for a long time, I never thought I would ever get a chance to go there, though.
Why did you choose to fundraise for The Salvation Army?
I have been involved with The Salvation Army for around 16 years in various voluntary positions. Through this I have seen first-hand the amazing work that we do, lives being transformed and hope restored, but that being said, the majority of our work could not be done without the amazing support and generosity from the community. I was extremely excited to find out there was an opportunity to journey the Kokoda Track and raise funds for the Salvos.
You are clearly really involved and invested in the art of giving back to the community, what do you think is so exciting about being able to take on an adventure as well as give to a cause you care about?
I think it is great because not only will there be a massive sense of achievement completing the Kokoda Trail but knowing that by doing this, many people will be helped with the funds that are raised. Every day, thousands of people are doing it tough, no home to live in, not sure where their next meal will come from. Knowing that some of these people will be fed, clothed, and accommodated is what excites me. It’s great to see my friends, family and community supporting me in raising funds for The Salvos.
"Knowing that some of these people will be fed, clothed, and accommodated is what excites me."
What are your total funds raised so far? Are there any key fundraising ideas that have been the bulk of your success?
As I write this the total funds I have raised so far is $1,394. Included in this was a sponsorship from Bluechip Roofing which blew me away, it was awesome to receive such great support and encouragement. I am yet to host any fundraising events, but so far social media presence, posting training session stats (maps, time and distance etc.) and photos of my journey on Instagram, Facebook and most importantly the Everyday Hero page has been great in raising awareness and has contributed to friends and family getting on board with their support. I have plans for a paintball fundraising day and a Talent Night in Feb/March 2017.
What have been some of the highlights of your fundraising experience so far?
Biggest highlight would have to be the first training session, ¾ into the walk, we came across a young woman who possibly broke her ankle. With no way for her to get down, we decided to carry her back down. Not the session we had planned for but it was amazing to be able to be there to help out. Ended up meeting a fellow Inspired Adventurer (Amanda) who was training for her trip to the Great Wall.
What have been your biggest challenges in taking on an Inspired Adventure? How did you overcome this?
I am quite a social person so I have found it challenging to do solo training sessions—fortunately, I have some awesome people who have supported me and come along for several hikes. I have found that even going alone, there are people to meet along the way, and everyone is really friendly and encouraging.
Have you noticed any changes or transformation in your life since taking on your first adventure?
I’ve noticed a drop in weight and an increase in fitness level. I’ve also started thinking about doing some more adventurous training sessions like Canyoning which is crazy because I fear heights and water. I think deciding to go on this adventure is helping and will help face some fears that have hindered me living life to the full.
"As soon as you decide to take on such a huge adventure, get out there and start training"
What advice would you offer to other people looking to complete a challenge like this?
JUST DO IT! As soon as you decide to take on such a huge adventure, get out there and start training… Train, train, TRAIN! The sooner you do it, the sooner you’ll start noticing the difference in your energy levels and you’ll feel great, half the journey is preparing for it, if you can build up your stamina, you will enjoy it so much more than if you’re constantly gasping for air. Find a support network who will go on training sessions with you or hold you accountable and give a bit of a boot up the backside when you slack off.
Just want to give a HUGE shout out to Bluechip Roofing Solutions for your sponsorship. Also a BIG thanks to those who have come out on hikes with me, Kirsten, Amanda, Andrew and Tania —your support is greatly appreciated.
Become our Fundraiser of the Month to win a $50 donation to your fundraising page!
Take a picture whilst fundraising for your adventure and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired and your adventure hashtag. The most exciting use of the hashtag, with a fundraising focus will be our Fundraiser of the Month – it’s that easy!
@INSPIREDADVENTURES
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