Year-long Table Mountain challenge raises funds
ANDREW Patterson, from Sea Point, Cape Town, climbed Table Mountain every day last year to raise funds for three non-profit organisations: Habitat for Humanity, One Heart for Kids, and the Sunflower Fund.
Through wind, rain, freezing temperatures and sun, Patterson was committed to his cause and hoped to inspire South Africans to make a difference and look out for their fellow man.
On New Year’s Eve, Patterson took his last step in a year-long journey that totalled 2 429km, including 262km of vertical climbing (equivalent to 71 Mount Everests), that took more than 964 hours to complete.
“This entire experience was even greater than I ever imagined. I’ve developed a greater understanding of listening to my own inner voice, intuition and gut,” Patterson said.
Throughout the year, he was accompanied by a total of 738 climbers, from around South Africa and from abroad, who lent their support to his cause.
“The people I got to meet, the conversations that we have had, the enthusiasm for people to get behind this to make a real difference in this country has been mind-blowing.”
In total R359 583.64 was raised, with the 365 Ubuntu Climbs initiative launched on donations-based crowdfunding platform BackaBuddy, with contributions from 452 donors.
Funds raised have already helped deliver books to three of the Western Cape’s poorest schools in Stellenbosch, Klapmuts and Kayamandi in connection with One Heart for Kids. With Habitat for Humanity, 10 families living in shacks in Baphumelele, Khayelitsha, have had their homes upgraded to be drier, safer and warmer.
Patterson was also involved in two donor drives for the Sunflower Fund that added 30 donors to its registry.
“Whatever your challenge, just get started. Table Mountain from afar seemed insurmountable, but seeing the next few stairs ahead of you makes you think: ‘Why didn’t I start sooner?’ Focus on today and what you can do right now to make South Africa better.”
Patterson’s campaign is still accepting donations.