Eleven Brisbanites have just returned from an epic tour where they trekked, hiked and kayaked across Vietnam to raise money for abused and neglected Australian children.
The team initially set a target to raise $40,000 between them but almost doubled their goal raising more than $70,000 for the charity Act for Kids.
The money was raised through raffles, sausage sizzles, dinner parties and fancy dress days at work, and is a significant achievement, said Dr Neil Carrington, CEO, Act for Kids.
Act for Kids is blown away by the teams commitment to go the extra mile to raise funds for abused and neglected kids, said Dr Carrington.
Thanks to these wonderful people, we will be able to provide vulnerable children with specialist therapy and treatment, enabling them to rebuild their lives after experiencing their own enormous physical and mental challenges.
One of the trekkers, Michele Hoskins, Director at Mermaid Waters Community Kindergarten, said the group pushed themselves to the limit, enduring mud, heat, humidity and even stomach bugs. However the end result was worth it.
We have children in Australia who have been born into tragic circumstances and accessing long-term, integrated and intensive therapy can change their lives, said Ms Hoskins.
Act for Kids has the knowledge and passion to give children back their childhood and we can do much to help this outstanding charity continue to grow and expand its services.
Another trekker, Tania Bolam, a product manager from Auto & General, Toowong, said the eight day challenge was the trip of a lifetime.
Between the people I met and the places we trekked, cycled, and kayaked through, I have nothing but fond memories, said Ms Bolam. Most importantly, I’m so proud we were able to raise over $70,000!