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Fundraiser of the Month: Callan & The John Muir Trail
Setting a target of 211 miles, brothers Callan and Campbell had a long walk ahead of them.
Destination.
The John Muir Trail in the mountains of California.
Mission.
To raise awareness about climate change and support Cool Earth.
The plan.
With remote learning on the cards for the two university students, Callan and Campbell wanted to take their newfound free time to do something meaningful. So, with a passion for nature and conservation, they decided to take on the trail. Their aim was to fundraise for climate action and Cool Earth, ensuring that future generations would have the opportunity to experience the beauty and wilderness they both enjoy.
This particular hike is not one for the faint of heart. This 211-mile hike usually takes walkers approximately three to four weeks to complete and passes through Yosemite National Park, Inyo National Forest and Devils Postpile, to name a few, and culminates at the highest peak in the continental United States, Mount Whitney.
“Cool Earth was the obvious choice because their practice of partnering with rainforest stakeholders is the only way to ensure that rainforests are preserved far into the future. Theirs is not a temporary solution.”
The two found that combining this trek with a charity that friends and families wanted to get behind, was more than enough incentive for people to donate. Callan discovered that many people wanted to donate to climate change but just didn’t know where to begin. Giving them an effective cause and a charity such as Cool Earth made it easy for them to follow through on that desire. And they weren’t wrong – they raised over $3000!
Top Tip from Callan.
Reach out to your friends and family individually first, before sending a mass email or putting it on social media. Many people like to donate when they feel a connection with you, the fundraiser, and this is easier when dealing with individuals.
Unfortunately, California’s 2020 wildlife season was the worst ever recorded, and several massive fires on or near the trail prevented the brothers from hiking. The unpredictable and increasingly common natural disasters such as this highlight the undeniable results of climate change and the importance of focusing on the environment. Although they were unable to complete the trail, all of the money raised will help Cool Earth work alongside local people around the world to keep the carbon-rich rainforest standing.