The world is so large yet each of us CAN make a difference. As part of this life lesson, service will be a motivation and a means to show that we can make a difference while hiking the trail. We have chosen the following organizations to support.
Each girl hopes to raise $2000 (or 2000 pairs of shoes) for their organization for the 2000+-miles they will hike. All additional donations will go to hike logistics and B-Rad foundation that we hope to continue to partner with upon our return.
Jamie has long hoped to start a non-profit that emphasizes the importance of and opens opportunities to the outdoors for those at-risk, in need, and facing terminal or life altering illnesses (such as her brother, Kyle’s). B-Rad was started in memory of a loved one, with a mission that correlates with our goal. We honor their mission of health, adventure, and stewardship. Our family will stay involved with B-Rad and continue to build the Awaking Dreams mission. (www.b-radfoundation.org)
Josie chose to try to collect 2000 pairs of shoes for “Soles for Souls,” as she knows the importance shoes have in her life, and will especially have when she is hiking. Your new and gently-worn shoes help individuals in need. Soles4Souls believes everyone around the world deserves a good pair of shoes. (soles4souls.org)
Redwood Empire Foodbank’s (REFB) mission is to end hunger in our community. This means having in place a community response system that makes adequate nutrition assistance available and accessible to anyone in need of help. Sabina has helped sort food at the REFB. Food plays a vital element on the trail and Sabina will have a connection to this effort as she hikes. (Refb.org)
Harper is passionate about wildlife and how it correlates to the health of our environment. She will divide her fundraising efforts between our local rescue and one near the AT. Both wildlife rescues provide care, rehabilitate and release, and facilitate education to the community. ( www.scwildliferescue.org, http://www.appalachianwild.org)
CARMA provides retiring thoroughbred racehorses with opportunities for new careers. They provide funding for the rehabilitation, retraining and/or retirement of California-raced Thoroughbred horses. Maya is an active rider and part of Pony Club. She was inspired by CARMA because she loves horses and some of her favorite horses are thoroughbred racehorses. (http://www.carma4horses.org)
Awaking Dreams 