Ordinary Heroes will be taking on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania in order to help raise funds for the Sandton SPCA.
Stephanie Brown, the organiser of the SPCA Kilimanjaro Challenge, first climbed Kilimanjaro for the Sandton SPCA in 2012. Brown did her first climb in 2007 and said she was adamant she wouldn’t do it again. However, in 2012, when the Sandton SPCA realised they needed to do a big fundraising initiative in order to fund their programmes, she decided to be part of the Sandton SPCA’s expedition and attempt the climb again.
“I wouldn’t have climbed again if not for my passion for animals, so that’s why I do it. It is my passion for animals that made me climb it… I still climb for animals, but I have also developed a love for this mountain and want to share with it others,” she said.
Brown first became involved with the SPCA through the Sandton SPCA’s Saturday volunteers programme and in 2011 joined the committee in order to offer more of her skills. She said that her work with the SPCA has been incredibly challenging, but very rewarding. “It’s become a part of my personal purpose, a huge part of my life and a great learning experience for me.”
The group climbing this year is made up of equal parts local and international climbers. Brown said that the group always makes it a wonderful experience. “We attract individuals who have a dream to climb Kilimanjaro and be part of a bigger purpose.”
She added that the team starts training six months before the climb and they encourage and get to know each other in their different parts of the world by sharing training photos and tips. “It’s very exciting when we are finally altogether and ready to take on our mountain challenge.”
Brown hopes to raise R500 000 for the Sandton SPCA this year but added that they would love to raise R1 million. Each climber pays for their own climb and then makes a commitment to raise a minimum of R10 000 for the Sandton SPCA. There are also opportunities for corporates and individuals to contribute to our fundraising goal, for example, by having the team carry a flag to the summit. The climb also helps to raise awareness about the important contribution that SPCA’s make to animal welfare.
“When people think about the SPCA, they usually think about cats and dogs and our shelter, but we are so much more. We are here to help all animals and to prevent cruelty to animals. Our inspectors investigate claims of cruelty, prosecute under the Animals Protection Act, if necessary, and conduct inspections of places where animals are kept,” said Brown.
She added that the climb is a rare opportunity for people to disconnect from their hectic daily lives and accomplish a life goal – one that for many is life-changing. Brown hopes the SPCA will be able to host a climb each year in order to raise money. The climbers will be embarking on their trip on 20 July and will climb for seven days.
“When you’re climbing on our expedition you’re a part of a bigger purpose, you’re completing your own goal but it really is for a bigger purpose,” concluded Brown.
Details: Stephanie Brown stephanie@sandtonspca.org.za; www.spcakilichallenge.com
Share your thoughts on the climb to raise funds for the Sandton SPCA on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page
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