Tag Archives: Fundraising

Fundraisers of The Month: Marie and Emma Montafia

Marie and Emma Montafia

Cause: Shake It Up Australia Foundation
Adventure: Camino for a Cure: Trek for Parkinson’s

As our Fundraisers of the Month, Marie and Emma have scored themselves a $50 donation to their fundraising page. To be our next month’s winner, make sure you’re uploading your journey to social and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired.

Please tell us a little about yourselves

Mum is 56 and lives on a sugar cane farm in North QLD She was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at 51 after noticing a tremor in her finger at the age of 50. Since her diagnosis, she has started her own millinery business which she has had a lot of success with.

I am 24 and live in Sydney, where I am studying a bachelor of education and arts at Sydney Uni. Acting is my passion and I go to acting classes weekly. I also like exercising, reading, and watching Netflix.

What inspired you to sign up to the El Camino trek for Shake it Up? What was your 'why' behind the decision?

Mum and I would love to find a cure for Parkinson’s disease in our lifetime. Mum has always wanted to do a part of the Camino, so when she saw this, she thought it was a great opportunity to challenge herself and do something she’d always wanted to do AND to raise money for a cause very important to her.

My ‘why’, was very similar to Mum’s. I thought this was a great opportunity for us to do something together and make a difference in our own way. I also wanted to do this to support Mum in her Parkinson’s journey.

How are you feeling about the challenge ahead? What are you most looking forward to?

Mum is looking forward to raising as much money as possible for Shake It Up Australia Foundation, and she can’t wait to trek this beautiful walk and meet the amazing people that will be accompanying her on this journey.

I’m really excited about the fundraising and some of the events I have planned. I am so excited about going over to Spain and seeing a beautiful country, and walking the Camino with an inspiring group of people.

"I thought this was a great opportunity for us to do something together and make a difference in our own way. I also wanted to do this to support Mum in her Parkinson's journey."

Have you noticed any changes in your life since taking on your first adventure?

Mum has been overwhelmed by the love and encouragement shown to us, and the incredible generosity of people that are so willing to support us. Mum also finds she has been exercising more as she is working towards this challenge. I too have been shocked by the incredible donations, and I have been so excited about all of the event planning and fundraising that I’ve been doing. I’m finding that I’m really passionate about it and loving every second of it!

How did you promote your page online?

We both put our individual stories up with the donation page link so that people understand the reasons why we are doing this. Mum has also put it on her business page which has a further reach than her individual social media pages. We have shared the link on our Instagram pages, as well as Facebook, to hopefully reach another target audience. Posting stories every few days about our progress or anything relating to the cause/adventure helps.

Do you have any hot tips for online fundraising that worked for you that you think others could apply to their own online approach?

Message good friends and family, who don’t have social media or aren’t very present on social media, about what you’re doing, and add a link to your fundraising page.

Send a private group message to a close circle of friends asking them to share the page and to support you in your fundraising – but send messages to groups that are pre-existing (e.g. work friends, old Uni friends, sporting team friends).

Put your personal story out there, nothing too long, but enough that makes people empathise and want to read the link attached.

Make every post meaningful and different to draw people in.

"Mum has been overwhelmed by the love and encouragement shown to us, and the incredible generosity of people that are so willing to support us. "

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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Spring into Fundraising

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Thinking about fundraising for a cause close to your heart? Incredible! We salute you. If you decide to fundraise for your chosen charity, you will soon discover that there is no greater feeling than knowing you have helped changed someone else’s life and made a positive difference in the world.

With Spring on the horizon, there’s no better time than now to start planning your warm weather fundraising events. To help you kickstart your journey, we’ve rounded up some great event ideas that are guaranteed to put fun back into fundraising this Spring.

Outdoor Movie Night

If you’ve got a big enough yard, you can host an outdoor cinema at home. Hire a projector, get some pillows for your guests to relax on and pick a few movies you know your guests will enjoy. Otherwise, you can hire or reserve a section of your public park to host the fundraiser, and this way you can bring more people in. Be sure to get approval to show the film in a public space.

Bake Sale

Put your baking skills to the test by hosting a bake sale! With an endless selection of culinary treats to whisk and serve – from cookies, cupcakes and pies to more bespoke celebration cakes – a bake sale is a sure way to take your fundraising goals to sweet new heights.

Wine Tasting Afternoon

Hosts and hostesses, rejoice! A fun-filled afternoon in the sun with tasty finger food paired with some delicious wine will guarantee smiles and donations all round.

Picnic

Nothing beats a feast in your favourite park. Ask everyone to bring a dish (potluck) or recruit a local caterer on board for something a little different.

BBQ

A barbecue is a fun and affordable way to take your fundraising to delicious new heights, raise awareness of your cause and target a wider demographic.

Camping Trip

If you and your friends love the outdoors, why not organise a camping trip with games and other activities, like kayak racing or tin can bowling.

Market Stall

Australians purchase around 27 kilograms of new clothing each year and then discard around 23 kilograms, which end up in landfill. Why not take your fundraising to new heights by turning your unwanted “trash” into cash by holding a weekend market stall? Research popular markets in your local area to find out which market is right for you and your items. Often you will be able to secure a stall spot online via the market’s website.

Garage Sale

Got a garage or spacious area at home to set up shop? A garage sale is a great way to declutter and sell big-ticket items such as furniture, kitchenware and electricals. Ask friends and family to donate goods that you can sell on the day as well.

Feeling Inspired?
Check out the upcoming adventures on our calendar!

5 Surprising facts about fundraising challenges you probably didn’t know

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Inspired has been in fundraising for a long time, and in that time we’ve learnt a few things. So without further ado, we’ve compiled this list of facts about fundraising challenges to shed some light on the motivation behind why your supporters might take on an adventure.

1. Challenges raise more money than non-challenges

Research undertaken by psychologist Christopher Olivola found that not only are people drawn to fundraisers that require physical effort, but that these challenges raise significantly more funds than non-challenges. This could be because a difficult challenge holds greater value in people’s minds.

2. People love to be challenged

Many fundraising challenges are not only physically demanding, they are also a test of will and spirit. When we are not challenged, we may fall into a routine that doesn’t excite or motivate us. A challenge forces us to look into the face of adversity and persevere. By establishing our own goals, we can break your routine and focus on something new and exciting. Many Inspired participants reveal they never knew they could achieve what they did, until they did it.

3. People are more likely to participate when the challenge relates to the cause

Olivola’s study also revealed that willingness to donate is higher when the challenge relates to the cause. Remember the Ice Bucket Challenge? This viral phenomenon motivated people from all walks of life to dump a bucket of ice water over their heads on camera, all to raise awareness for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or motor neurone disease). It was intended to simulate the sensation of one of the symptoms of the disease. This challenge raised an incredible $115 million, funds which went towards research, community services and education.

4. Participants are not always who you may think

Fundraising challenges don’t necessarily attract athletes or fit people. Rather, these participants are inspired by the cause, and often have a strong calling to do the challenge either for themselves or for a loved one.

5. There’s a challenge to suit everyone

Not everyone will want to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and that’s okay. A challenge for some may not work for everyone, that’s why it’s good to know who your supporters are, and what kind of challenge appeals to them. Whether that’s cycling the Cambodian countryside or trekking the rocky rugged outback, Inspired challenges are all unique and designed with difficulty level in mind. Ultimately, people are drawn to fundraising challenges because they can give back in a meaningful way, while also pursuing something outside of their comfort zone. This experience can be tremendously rewarding, as evident by the feedback we have received from participants, many of whom are willing to sign up to subsequent adventures. Stay tuned for our downloadable paper “No Pain Less Gain: How Physical Challenges Impact Charity Fundraising” which will be available soon.

Feeling inspired?

Check out our adventures calendar!

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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25 million raised since 2004!

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We are excited to announce $25,964,974 raised since the beginning of Inspired Adventures! We could not have achieved this incredible milestone without the participants, donors, corporations and charities who are part of the Inspired family. Here are some of the top destinations, charities and challenges that have made this ongoing journey a huge success:

Top five destinations

Great Wall of China: $4,133,452
Mount Kilimanjaro: $4,031,681
Vietnam and Cambodia cycles: $3,656,408
New York Marathon: $2,375,101
Kokoda trek: $2,305,032

Top 5 charity causes we have helped fund

Cancer: $5,561,159
Aid and development: $4,910,129
Hospitals and care organisations: $3,641,563
Human rights, social justice and welfare: $3,081,133
General health: $2,700,261

Notable challenges by cause

Cancer: NBCF Steps Towards a Cure Great Wall Challenge 2016 $295,223
Aid and Development: UNICEF Climb for Kids Kilimanjaro Challenge 2014 $292,606
Hospitals and care organisations: Mater Foundations Climb for Cancer 2012: $330,000
Human rights, social justice and welfare: Amnesty International Australia New York Marathon 2013: $186,734
General health: Heart Foundation New York Marathon 2007: $250,000
Homelessness: Wayside Chapel Kilimanjaro 2013: $192,000
Schools and universities: University of Newcastle Great Wall 2015: $80,498
Veterans: Soldier On New York Marathon 2016: $36,980
Indigenous Rights: Indigenous Community Volunteers Larapinta Trek 2012: $60,199
Mental health: Kids Helpline Climb for Kids 2011: $150,000
Environment and Conservation: Climate Council Kimberley Challenge 2015: $109,062
Disability services: Guide Dogs ACT/NSW Kilimanjaro 2012: $113,665
Animals: Taronga Centenary Sumatran Challenge 2016: $128,453

Feeling inspired?

Check out our calendar for our latest adventures!

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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How to start fundraising: A kickstart guide

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Are you about to start a fundraising adventure challenge? Or perhaps you are simply looking to raise money for a cause you are passionate about. Fundraising can be hard work, but once you gain momentum the sky really is the limit with how much money you can raise! Here are five tips to help get your fundraising off to a good start.

Step 1: First things first; time to get the ball rolling

Studies show that people rarely want to be the first one to do something. This goes for fundraising, too. When you start your page, make the first contribution to get your fundraising off to a good start. Keep in mind, people don’t often want to make a smaller donation than the previous one. Your contribution will set a standard for others to follow and they are more likely to get involved.

Step 2: Write an email and remember to include the “Why”

Your friends and family need to know why this matters to you. For your online fundraising page, create a personalised story – why you signed up for this adventure and why you are supporting the cause. Use this and the case for support letter to write an email to send to your network.

Step 3: Start with your closest network

No surprise here, but it is always best to start by emailing your closest contacts, as these are the people who are most likely to donate. Speak to them first or send them a quick message to let them know what you are doing. Once you’ve built momentum with your inner circle, you can use the email template you wrote to reach out to your extended network. Remember to take the time to personalise your email for greater impact.

Step 4: Share to your broader network on social media

Once you have reached out to your closest friends and family and emailed your other contacts, it’s time to utilise social media to the max! Write a short post on Facebook tagging and thanking the people who have already donated and include the link to your fundraising page so that those who haven’t donated can see that people are already getting behind you. Remember, only around 10% of your Facebook friends will see your post, so it is worth sharing it several times during the course of your fundraising.

Step 5: Follow up with email

Emails are easy to overlook! Think about it, how many emails do you receive per day, both at work and in your personal inbox? The best way to follow up with email is to keep the people updated with your fundraising progress. Let them know when you are $200 off your goal or you have raised 75% of your fundraising target. Ask your supporters if they can help you to get you to the next milestone.

And most importantly…

Always acknowledge and thank those who donate to you. As more people get behind you, keep sharing your progress via email and social media. Those who’ve shown their support want to know how you are going, and where their money will go.

Feeling inspired?

Find a challenge for a cause you’re passionate about on our 2017 calendar!

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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Fundraising ideas for winter

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With winter upon us, and lots of money to raise for our favourite charity, now’s the time to get creative. Asking for donations can be tricky, but hosting fun, winter-appropriate events can be an excellent way to fundraise during the colder months.

These ideas aim to give something back and hopefully entertain your guests, so let’s get started!

Bake sale

Bake sales are one of the best ways to fundraise especially in winter; all you need (besides the ingredients) is a little bit of time and some creativity. Fun recipes for winter include; double chocolate snowballs, glazed ginger bread scones, or cheese and sausage rolls for those who prefer savoury treats. Set up your bake sale at home during the weekend, or bring your treats into the office for your workmates to enjoy.

Ladies night

There’s a lot you can do for your girl friends on a girl’s night in. Host a wine-tasting party, make cocktails or bake cookies together. You can also select some of your favourite movies and host a movie marathon at your house.

Karaoke night

Set up a karaoke machine and microphones if you have them (or borrow from a friend). Alternatively, you can hold your event at a karaoke bar or restaurant. Ask your friends to contribute to cover the cost as well as the donation to help you reach your target!

Movie night

Karaoke may not be for everyone, but most people won’t say no to a movie. You can hold a movie night every week or second week under a different theme to get more interest. It doesn’t take much work to set up a movie night, which makes it one of the easiest winter ideas to pull off.

Broth and bonfire

Fortunately for us, the Australian winter can be quite forgiving. Just because it’s a bit chilly, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the outdoors. Hold a “broth and bonfire” night by preparing soup for your guests and if your backyard allows for it, set up a contained bonfire (check the status on fire bans). For something extra, prepare some mulled apple cider or hot chocolate. Charge an entry fee you are comfortable with, and that allows you to keep on top of your expenses.

Clothing swaps and sales

With the changing season, many people want to update their wardrobe. Look through your closet for any clothes you’re no longer wearing. Set up a stall at a local market for better foot traffic, or hold a sale at your house. Make sure you invite all your friends and encourage them to invite anyone who might be interested. Try to have a wide selection so your customers have plenty to browse!

Feeling inspired?

Check out our calendar for 2017!

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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Fundraiser of the Month – Mandy Kopelke

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Mandy Kopelke

Cause: Plan Australia
Adventure: Plan’s Cycle for Girls
Fundraising Page: http://cycleforgirlscambodia.gofundraise.com.au/page/mandykopelke
Social: @mandycycles

As our Fundraiser of the Month, Mandy has scored herself a $50 donation to her fundraising page. To be our next month’s winner, make sure you’re uploading your journey to social and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired.

Such a beautiful day to get back into training after the school holidays! This is one of my fav rides ❤️ Only did 17kms... Not so far, BUT there were big hills.... AND warning signs 😜 @plan_australia @inspiredadventures + + + + #mandycycles #cycleforgirls #inspiredadventures #planaustralia #cyclinggirl #cyclelikeagirl #cycling #bike #ivebeeninspired #becauseiamagirl #charity #charitychallenge #changetheworld #mandykopelkeart #trainingride #westhead #terreyhills #specializedbikes

A photo posted by Mandy, 🇦🇺 wannabee ⒸⓎⒸⓁⒾⓈⓉ (@mandycycles) on May 4, 2016 at 8:23pm PDT

What inspired you to take on your first Inspired Adventure?

Actually it was very spur of the moment! I am on Plan’s mailing list and received an email from Plan International about the Cambodia challenge that really grabbed me – it just seemed to be the right thing at the right time! I wasn’t sure that we could manage it as a family as my husband is away from home with work often, but when I mentioned it to him he immediately said, “Do it! We can work everything out” … so here I am.

Why did you choose to fundraise for Plan International?

Since the email I received from Plan really grabbed me, I went on to read more about the #becauseIamagirl campaign. The story of how the campaign was started by Marianne Raven hit home and made me think about how lucky I was to be born into a society where I had rights, the opportunity to be educated and make a good life for myself and my family. I want my kids to understand that they too are lucky and that there is much we can do to facilitate change and make the world a better place. It only takes 1 small act to start making a difference.

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?

The whole experience is exciting. I have an amazing challenge on the horizon where I will be cycling 350kms through a country I have never visited, and visiting a Plan International project on International Day of the Girl. But this is only part of the story. I am gaining personal confidence, setting goals, learning new skills, getting fit, bringing together my friends and family and all in aid of #BecauseIamaGirl… we are going to make a difference somewhere that needs it most, and what makes it super special is that I am a girl doing it for other girls.

"I am gaining personal confidence, setting goals, learning new skills, getting fit, bringing together my friends and family and all in aid of #BecauseIamaGirl"

What are your total funds raised so far? Are there any key fundraising ideas that have been the bulk of your success?

The fundraising was the scariest part of the challenge for me – I am exceptionally self-sufficient and don’t like to ask anyone for anything… but I have surprised myself. So far I have raised almost $2,000, mainly through donations and small fundraising ideas. I have decided to achieve my goals through lots of small events through the year – a little soon mounts up. This suits the way I work and think. I believe it is important to raise money in ways that suit your personality and personal network so that it is a fun, rewarding and of course successful experience without the stress.

Training with friends - a great ride this morning @emilyperrycrocker ❤️ Do you like my fab new prop @suebzimmerman 🐝- you inspired me!! @PlanInternational @inspiredadvntrs + + + + #cycleforgirls #inspiredadventures #planaustralia #cyclinggirl #cyclelikeagirl #cycling #bike #ivebeeninspired #donate #becauseiamagirl #charity #charitychallenge #cycle4acause #changetheworld

A photo posted by Mandy, 🇦🇺 wannabee ⒸⓎⒸⓁⒾⓈⓉ (@mandycycles) on Mar 30, 2016 at 9:21pm PDT

What have been some of the highlights of your fundraising experience so far?

I am an artist and am using my art as a focal point for my fundraising. Last month I released the first series of my “HeArts of Hope” – hand painted wooden hearts, each one uniquely designed, with all profit being donated to my fundraising campaign. They sold out within the week and I already have a waiting list for series 2 which will be released shortly. I will also be donating 75% of the purchase price from 2 of my latest abstract paintings, “Feeling Flowery” and “Babbling Brook”, to the campaign. At the end of May I will also be attending a car boot (and trailer!) sale, selling lots of items that my friends are donating. I’ve used Facebook a lot to advertise what I’m doing to my friends and their response has been amazing. I have a house full of things already, a borrowed trailer and friends volunteering to help on the day. I am very excited to see how we go and feel blessed to have such wonderful friends!

What have been your biggest challenges in taking on an Inspired Adventure? How did you overcome this?

My biggest challenge is by far the fundraising, but I’m finding that little events along the way and the constant talking to people to raise the profile of what I am doing seems to be working. I’ve also started sharing my experiences on Instagram and am loving the motivational comments that people leave.

Have you noticed any changes or transformation in your life since taking on your first adventure?

I am doing something really meaningful and important, so I feel really great about myself. Understanding more of the background of the campaign has also put life into perspective in many ways. Here in Australia we take a lot for granted. My family is my support team and having them involved every step of the way is also helping them to learn what is important in life. By the time my #cycleforgirls comes around I will also be fit as a fiddle… that change is still in progress!

"It only takes one small act to start making a difference."

What advice would you offer to other people looking to complete a challenge like this?

Go for it! There is a way to get around all the hurdles. Initially the challenge might seem like an elephant sized task, but breaking it down into bite-sized pieces will ensure that you achieve your goals. Getting your family on board with the excitement is important, mine are my ever loving support crew, my children (and husband!) are proud of me and tell everyone that will listen what we are doing.

Become our Fundraiser of the Month to win a $50 donation to your fundraising page!

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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Fundraiser of the Month – Jami Hill

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Jami Hill

Cause: The Leukemia Foundation
Adventure: Leukaemia Foundation: Machu Picchu Challenge 2016
Fundraising Page: my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/jami
Social: https://www.facebook.com/jamifundraising/

As our Fundraiser of the Month, Jami has scored herself a $50 donation to her fundraising page! To be our next month’s winner, make sure you’re uploading your journey to social and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired.

So impressed you superbabes, I still can't believe it. $3401 for the #leukaemiafoundation 😚 #jamidoesmachupicchu #bloodcancers #inspiredadventures

A photo posted by Jami Hill (@salty.eyelashes) on Jan 31, 2016 at 8:33am PST

What inspired you to take on your first Inspired Adventure for the Leukaemia Foundation?

I love volunteering so there are many things that have motivated me to take on my first Inspired Adventure, but the biggest would be to fundraise for a fantastic foundation and give back to people that really need support. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at the age of 7 and received 3 years of chemotherapy at Princess Margaret Hospital in Perth. As a family unit we were luckily enough to be supported by many foundations and not-for-profits such as the Leukaemia Foundation and Ronald McDonald House. I have completed Shave for a Cure several times but I love the idea of raising money for the foundation that also combines setting myself rewarding goals. Training for Machu Picchu is a great challenge that is incredibly empowering, especially post chemotherapy.

How are you feeling about the challenge ahead?

A combination of nervous excitement and overly enthusiastic motivation! I have quite high standards for myself and combining full time work, with part time university, a training schedule and fundraising has already provided some tricky situations and the need for proactive management. I have already learnt a lot about myself and we are still a few months out from the trek! I am looking forward to pushing my own expectations of what I think my body is capable of doing. Keeping in touch with other trekkers through social media is such a great way of motivating yourself and keeping that enthusiasm going. I have wanted to explore South America for years so I cannot wait to immerse myself in local culture.

What have been some of your more successful fundraising ideas so far?

I’ve found most of my support has come through social media. You do run the risk of spamming family and friends, however if you switch it up with interesting pictures or funny memes it engages people from another level rather than them just scrolling past ‘another fundraising post’. My recent idea has just become a reality! I have managed to have some Machu Picchu sports singlets designed as a fundraiser for family, friends and trekkers. I used the design and slogan brainstorming as way to engage people on Facebook and Instagram. The sponsors for the singlets; Fremantle Indoor Beach Volleyball, Blend Pizza & Café, Range to Reef Environmental, Two of Three Design and Fremantle Health Food Store have enabled me to have the design and production done without spending out of my own pocket, which means all the money from the singlets will be able to be donated to the Leukaemia Foundation! I also created some bright and colourful flyers about my story to go with collection tins into staff rooms, cafes and offices. I’ve found that making the trek and cause relevant to the local community makes it more personal and engaging.

"Work out what your motivation is and be very clear on your goal and what your own expectations are for yourself."

What have been some of the highlights of your fundraising experience so far?

I have thoroughly enjoyed the hiking whenever possible (and so has my dog!). The most fantastic feeling is the local community and the support they have offered. I have barely had to ask for help, which is probably the hardest and most uncomfortable part about fundraising. The horrible truth is nearly everyone knows someone effected by blood cancers and not everyone is lucky enough to have an outcome like mine. If we can make a better brighter future for those that will be diagnosed, whether it be their treatment or even the level of care and support services, then it’s well worth the effort.

Beautiful family & friends in 16 days and during the silly season you have helped me raise $2056 from online donations alone! If you are being tagged again that means you donated over 100 smackarinos and are a MEGA BABE <3 https://www.facebook.com/jamifundraising http://my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/jami

A photo posted by Jami Hill (@salty.eyelashes) on Dec 24, 2015 at 4:23am PST

What have been your biggest challenges in taking on an Inspired Adventure? How did you overcome this?

As I mentioned before my time management is fairly average! Making a schedule and combining catching up with friends with hikes or beach walks has been fantastic. I also find asking for help and especially for donations incredibly difficult. I know how many charities are out there and how bad our local job market is here in Perth – which is one of the reasons I wanted to make a singlet. That way there is something tangible and functional that people are making a donation for.

Have you noticed any changes or transformation in your life since taking on your first adventure?

Health and fitness were already a big priority but it has now become more of a daily focus in achieving the goals I set myself. I have become more engaged with the local community and made some great relationships with local businesses. I have also discovered I can do a lot more than I thought was ever possible!

"I have already learnt a lot about myself and we are still a few months out from the trek! I am looking forward to pushing my own expectations of what I think my body is capable of doing."

What are you most looking forward to about your upcoming adventure to Peru?

The culture! I plan on learning some basic Spanish (maybe if we add another day into the week?) and love meeting people and learning about their story. It gives you an opportunity to see the place you are in immersed in from another perspective. Peru has such an incredible history so it will be fantastic to be there and experience it all. Lastly, I am really looking forward to meeting the other amazing trekkers from around Australia. We all seem to have unique experiences but have the same goals and motivations, which I imagine shall make for a memorable and very special trip!

What advice would you offer to other people looking to complete a challenge like this?

My advice would be to talk about it with family and friends before committing, make sure you have the time and money available. Fundraising whilst also trying to save money doesn’t make the experience as fun as it should be! My other suggestion would be to work out what your motivation is – be very clear on your goal and what your own expectations are for yourself. Make sure you share the workload and even though it is uncomfortable – ask people for help! Trust me, you will be very surprised with the number of people that genuinely want to help you achieve your goal!

Become our Fundraiser of the Month to win a $50 donation to your fundraising page!

Take a picture and use the hashtag #IveBeenInspired and your adventure hashtag. The most exciting use of the hashtag, with a fundraising and charity focus will be our Fundraiser of the Month – it’s that easy!

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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Adventurer of the Month – Bernhard Budiono

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Name: Bernhard Budiono
Cause: UNICEF
Adventure: Unicef Trek for Children Kilimanjaro 2014 and Unicef Trek for Children Everest Base Camp 2015

Bernhard is a true adventurer at heart! After having just climbed Kilimanjaro in 2014, Bernhard was one of the first to sign up to take on Everest Base Camp just a few months after his return. He also managed to trek the Kokoda Track somewhere in between! He has been a real trooper, proving that travel really can be a platform for personal transformation and global impact! Bernhard captured some truly inspiring moments along his journey. You can see more on his Instagram gallery here: Bernhard Budiono Photography

“The first time I took on an Inspired Adventure for UNICEF, we were off to the mighty Mt Kilimanjaro. To be honest, my first thoughts were it was just another bucket list item to tick off. However, the more I delved into the experience, the country, the people and the cause – I became increasingly engaged with the whole idea. After working in Northern Africa and seeing the UN flags and banners, the whole concept of their work began to be more real.

When the earthquakes occurred earlier this year, my motivations changed, but my resolve did not. The work with the NGOs became more about disaster relief, and I found that the trek became more focussed on the role of UNICEF. It was even more incentive to go! We were lucky enough to be given the opportunity to go to the office in Kathmandu.

My friends and family have been pivotal in my adventures, successes and above all, in me being who I am today.

“The adventures I’ve led haven’t been for notches on the belt, but more so to make an impact in a world that we sometimes see as spiralling out of control.”

The excitement of going to new, exotic places, pales in comparison to knowing that you are changing the lives of people elsewhere. Some wise words were given to me by a very inspirational person, and they’ll stay with me till the day I die.

“Success should never be measured by wealth, fame and fortune, but by the number of lives you can impact in your lifetime…”

I think that was all I needed to motivate me. It wasn’t so much for the physical challenge or anything like that. Just one word – impact – that’s what excited me.

Learning and understanding the work that organisations like UNICEF do on the ground has been critical in motivating me to move into the humanitarian and development field. I think above all, it’s helped me find some purpose with my spare time. To explore, experience, learn and above all – love more.”

If you would like to be our next Adventurer or Fundraiser of the Month, simply share your inspired journey on social media and tag #IveBeenInspired

Feeling inspired?

Visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and find a charity challenge perfect for you

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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2015 – What a year!

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Adventures

686

Fundraisers

5.32

million raised

Wowee, what a year we’ve had!

2015 was the biggest year ever for Inspired Adventures. We saw 77 trips depart and a massive 686 incredible people joined an Inspired Adventure. They ran, cycled and trekked all over the world for their chosen cause. This year, we saw an incredible growth in our funds raised for charity, with over $20 million raised in 11 years and $5.32 million this year alone.

So what else did we get up to?

Our boss got married!

Our inspiring CEO and Founder Justine got married to the amazing Angus! It was a beautiful and magical wedding, and the photos are stunning (check out a sneaky preview below).

We travelled the world!

We are so lucky at IA HQ that we get to go on some of our amazing adventures as a Team Leader. Kim trekked the Inca Trail with the Smith Family, Serena, Charlie and Sharni cycled in Cambodia for BCNA, Open Heart International and World Vision, Kate hiked the Lares Trail in Peru with NBCF, Theresa met Orang-utans and Elephants in Sumatra with 1 Million Women and Kat, Laura and Jasmine conquered the Great Wall of China with the Leukaemia Foundation, Kidney Health and the University of Newcastle. We absolutely loved our adventures and being able to share the experience with some wonderful teams.

We welcomed some amazing new clients

We love our charity partners – it’s incredible to be able to work with such wonderful organisations that are making such a vital difference to the world. We are so thrilled to have welcomed some new members to our family in 2015!

Welcome to: Birdlife Australia, Environment Victoria, Legacy Australia, Windermere, the Bob Brown Foundation, The Royal Flying Doctor Service, Macquarie University, HeartKids SA, The Salvation Army, NADO, Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy, Make-A-Wish Australia, beyondblue, CareFlight, ChildFund NZ, Suicide Prevention Australia, SANE, Mission Australia, Ovarian Cancer, Cancer Council QLD, Soi Dog, Mission Australia, Children’s Cancer Institute, The Wilderness Society, The Royal Hospital for Women, The Price of Wales Hospital, the Jane Goodall Institute, Christina Noble Children’s Foundation, School for Life, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, Epilepsy Foundation, Animals Asia, Marie Stopes, Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation, Save the Children New Zealand and Future2 Foundation

We launched new destinations!

In 2015 we had our first adventure to Spain! We trekked 100km of the El Camino Trail from Sarria to Santiago with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and it was an epic adventure! The team trekked under the warm Spanish sun on the Camino Francés.

We partnered with GetUp! to take our first group to the Tarkine in Tasmania. The team had an incredible time trekking amongst giant forests, sweeping beaches, rugged mountains and pristine rivers.

And in another first, we went to the Kimberley with the Climate Council. The team trekked rocky terrain, explored picturesque gorges and witnessed the age-old Indigenous rock art found across this ancient landscape. To top it off, they were joined by renowned scientist and former Australian of the Year, Professor Tim Flannery—the Climate Council’s Chief Councillor—at the remote Mornington Wildlife Conservancy. Alongside Tim, the team observed the rich biodiversity of the Kimberley, home to many threatened and endangered species including the northern quoll.

And next year we are excited to explore even more new destinations! 2016 will see us trekking in Thailand with Soi Dog, canoeing the Murray River with Environment Vic, experiencing the stunning Lord Howe Island with the Climate Council and hiking in Kakadu with CareFlight.

We met some inspiring people

Best of all, we met all of YOU. Without all the amazing people who took on an Inspired Adventure, we would never have achieved everything we have. So we’d like to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts! You are changing the world one adventure at a time and you should be so proud of yourselves.

Feeling inspired?

If you haven’t taken on one of our charity challenges yet, there’s no time like the present! Visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and change the world in 2016

@INSPIREDADVENTURES

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