What if you could change a life through your training? That is the question Different.org asked all swimmers, cyclists and runners.
This crowdfunding campaign has athletes and non-athletes alike become activists through the simple act of signing up at no cost to them. Just by signing you have your pick of five varying charities you would unwittingly allocate funds to, through your training. Also, just by signing up you automatically give R100 to the charity.
Local cyclist, Shanel Munger heard the call and let’s just say there were no brakes on her ride to change lives.
Munger explained that she had been an avid cyclist for the past four years and about a year ago was introduced to Rays of Hope, a non-profit organisation that undertakes various social outreach projects in Alexandra Township.
“They actually are hands-on and they embed themselves in the community and partner with its members to encourage change,” she said.
After she found out that this charity was one of the five that would be allocated funds through the campaign, she knew she had to rally as many cyclists as she could. “I managed to get about 60 cyclists to be activists.”
She garnered most of these cyclists at the recent 947 Cycle Challenge. After you sign up, any time you log an activity on their website they donate to the charity. So the more kilometres you do the more money Different.org gives to your charity.
The Ferndale resident said you do not have to necessarily be a runner or cyclist. “If you want you can even just donate any amount to the organisation of your choice,” adding that such initiatives give such a richness to what one already loves doing anyway.
“I absolutely love it! I love the whole concept and I really think it innovative and giving back like this is just awesome!”
The cyclist said they have until 8 December to gather as many activists as they can. “The more people sign up the more lives this campaign can change.”
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