December 2023
From Seeds to Success: Trek Relief’s Role in Transforming Agriculture, Women’s Leadership, and Education in Nepal
From our 2023 Nepal fundraising trip, our group of 9 participants donated $6,750 to The Small World, supporting the transformative Seeds of Hope program in Solukhumbhu, Nepal. This contribution has enabled over 60 families to receive essential agricultural resources, including cauliflower, broccoli, coriander, carrot seeds, and greenhouse tunnel materials. Additionally, beneficiaries have received training in advanced agricultural techniques such as 3G cutting, proper seed starting, and compost fertilization. This skills development is crucial in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.
The program's success is evident in the bountiful harvests of beans, cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, and more. Notably, many women have progressed towards commercial farming by selling excess produce, marking a significant step in economic empowerment.
A vital feature of the program is its focus on community building. Groups of 25 women each have been formed to strengthen community support and enhance problem-solving capabilities. Leadership development has been another cornerstone, with two key leaders in each group acting as liaisons and nurturing leadership skills.
Trek Relief's team also played a hands-on role by assisting in constructing six greenhouse tunnels over three days. Moreover, Trek Relief extended its support beyond agriculture by hosting a book drive in their home communities. Our participants delivered five suitcases, weighing 50 lbs, filled with children's books to a rural mountain school in Solukhumbhu and the Himalayan Hope Home, a girls' orphanage in Kathmandu. This contribution not only enriches the educational resources of these institutions but also underscores Trek Relief's holistic approach to community development.
The impact of Trek Relief extends beyond immediate agricultural support. The organization has inspired participants to take on leadership roles in other contexts. Three participants have stepped into roles as Trip Leaders with Trek Relief. Furthermore, two intend to become Program Creators for Trek Relief for new initiatives in other countries.
Looking ahead, Trek Relief has committed to supporting the Seeds of Hope program in 2024 and funding a new program focusing on responding to the November 3, 2023 earthquake in Jajarkot, Nepal. This initiative underscores the group's ongoing commitment to responding to critical needs and empowering communities in Nepal.
Through these multifaceted contributions, Trek Relief has not only supported immediate agricultural needs and fostered a sustainable and empowered community, setting a precedent for future humanitarian efforts.
November 2023
This #GivingSeason, give the gift of global change
We are proud to announce our new online store! It’s more than just a collection of gifts; it's a gateway to making a real difference.
Imagine the smile on your loved ones' faces as they unwrap a gift that's stylish, unique, and brimming with heart. Each specially branded item in our limited-time collection is designed to be both practical and delightful.
But the joy doesn't stop there! Every purchase you make contributes to empowering communities and nurturing sustainable, purpose-driven global projects. 🌐
October 2023
Meet Trek Relief’s Change Maker Grant Winners
In a celebration of dedication, commitment, and the spirit of adventure, we are proud to announce the recipients of our inaugural Change Maker Winner Grant. These exceptional individuals, Tamera Bedford and Rob Mullins, have emerged as torchbearers of purposeful travel.
Tamera Bedford, originally from Colorado, has spent over a decade in Asia, leading dental volunteer trips in Nepal. Her volunteer leadership experiences in Nepal have made her an invaluable addition to Trek Relief's team.
Rob Mullins, a seasoned Wilderness First Aid/CPR instructor and outdoor enthusiast, stood out to us as ideally suited for our program in the stunning landscapes of Patagonia. His enthusiasm for wilderness exploration aligns perfectly with Trek Relief's mission.
Choosing between the outstanding applicants was a challenge. To recognize the exceptional talent, we decided to honor two Change Makers. Tamera and Rob stood out with their extensive experience and unwavering commitment to Trek Relief's mission.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all applicants for their passion and dedication. Stay tuned for future grant opportunities. Remember, every participant can become a future Trip Leader, embodying adventure and global leadership.
Join us on adventures that redefine travel, leaving a positive mark on the world. 🌍✨
September 2023
Trek Relief and Harvard University: A Powerful Partnership for Positive Change
In the spirit of making a difference, Trek Relief joined forces with Harvard University for the second consecutive year as part of its Global Day of Service volunteerism event on September 1, 2023. We're thrilled to share the highlights of our collective efforts and celebrate the impactful achievements we've accomplished together.
Outreach Excellence: Spreading the Trek Relief Message Far and Wide
With the dedicated support of volunteers, we were able to make meaningful connections and extend our reach. Together, we reached out to 24 aligned Harvard student organizations, sharing about Trek Relief’s mission within Harvard’s student and alumni community. These efforts have played a crucial role in expanding our network and raising awareness about our programs and opportunities amongst motivated and inspired individuals.
Fundraising Triumphs: A Big Thank You to Our Champions
During the volunteer event, seven new fundraising campaigns were launched, collectively raising $1,035 in just a span of two weeks! The courage displayed by these students in venturing into the world of fundraising not only advances our mission but also opens doors to incredible journeys and impactful experiences. We are incredibly proud of each of them for taking this brave step to making a positive impact.
Creative Collaborations: Crafting a Beautiful Image for Trek Relief
Our volunteers' creativity and vision have been invaluable. We are excited about the latest graphic designs that they created for us, which have given Trek Relief a captivating and distinct image to be proud of. Additionally, our dedicated volunteers have designed templates and flyers tailored to promote a student winter break trip, currently scheduled for January 3-14, 2024.
At Trek Relief, we pride ourselves on our adaptability and capability to run both online and in-person volunteer events, accommodating groups of all sizes. We're immensely thankful to everyone who participated and has been part of this journey with us.
August 2023
Trek Relief Founder’s Inspiring Journey Featured on The Maverick Show Podcast
We're thrilled to share the exciting news that our founder, Candice Young, recently appeared on The Maverick Show podcast! In this captivating episode, Candice takes listeners on a journey through her life, from growing up in a Chinese immigrant home in LA to her remarkable path of empowerment, adventure, and meaningful service.
Candice's journey took a profound turn when she engaged in disaster relief work in Nepal. This life-changing experience propelled her to create Trek Relief. Seven years later, Trek Relief projects have spanned Nepal, Mongolia, Chile, and Peru, supporting community-led initiatives in climate resilience, ecological regeneration, economic autonomy, and education. Candice dives into the challenges of voluntourism and unveils Trek Relief's conscious travel principles, emphasizing the significance of sustainable impact.
Candice's incredible journey is a testament to the power of aligning passion, purpose, and action. Stay tuned for more updates on Trek Relief's mission to make the world a more beautiful place for all. Thank you for being part of this transformative adventure!
July 2023
Change Maker Grant: Join Trek Relief and Discover Heart-Centered Global Leadership
We Are Offering a $1,500 Grant Toward Our 2023 Nepal Trip.
Thinking about joining Trek Relief as a Trip Leader or Program Creator one day?
Through the power of paying it forward, some of our greathearted donors have gifted their contributions to support the trip of a deserving individual.
We would like to grant this as a gift ($1,500 value) to a person who shows serious interest in exploring the possibility of becoming a Trip Leader or Program Creator with Trek Relief one day. If awarded this grant, these individuals will be shadowing the current Trip Leader and getting behind-the-scenes experience of what goes into running a trip with Trek Relief.
The goal of this Change Maker Grant is to provide an accessible opportunity for someone to discover how to find their purpose by stepping into heart-centered global leadership.
Requirements
Must be able to attend our 2023 Nepal trip (November 27 - December 8, 2023).
Expresses an interest in becoming part of the Trek Relief team as a Trip Leader or Program Creator one day.
Is willing and able to assist the Trip Leader before and during the trip. Examples may include attending meetings with partners in Nepal, transporting supplies to Nepal, and helping promote the trip.
Writes a post-trip reflection that shares what they experienced, which may be shared on our social media, newsletter, and website.
Grant Details
One chosen individual will be awarded $1,500 as Trip Credit toward our 2023 Nepal trip.
To contribute to the trip’s fundraising goals, we still ask the individual to fundraise/donate the remaining tax-deductible donation of $1,500 to help the program run.
The winner is responsible for their own airfare to Nepal, as well as miscellaneous travel expenses.
Application Deadline: August 25, 2023
Applicants will be notified of our decision on August 31, 2023.
Join us on this transformative journey and take the first step towards becoming a change-maker with Trek Relief.
For more information and to apply, check our Change Maker Grant page.
June 2023
Join us in Building the Free School of Permaculture: Empowering a Sustainable Future
We are excited to announce our new project: The Free School of Permaculture. For the past seven years, Alma Verde has been sharing a way of life that harmonizes with nature, impacting thousands of visitors. It has been so effective at sharing the principles that we strive for at Trek Relief that we have made it a cornerstone part of our program in Patagonia. Alma Verde has been a highlight for our participants, who experience a beautiful example of a zero-waste, regenerative mode of living on our trips.
We believe permaculture and sustainable living knowledge are crucial in the current global context. That's why we are committed to supporting the democratization of this knowledge, making it accessible to all who wish to learn. To achieve this goal, we are building a physical space—a free center of learning by doing. This space will be open to teachers and students, ensuring knowledge accessibility, regardless of economic or geographical limitations in our remote corner of Patagonia.
We are requesting financial support to help us reach thousands of others and make this dream a reality. By supporting this project, you empower Patagonians, promote sustainable living practices, and contribute to a healthier planet for all.
Join us today in building a sustainable tomorrow. We greatly appreciate your generous contribution to making this dream a reality. Together, let's spread the reach of a brighter future by building La Escuela Libre de Permacultura.
Thank you, from all of us at Trek Relief and Alma Verde.
May 2023
Announcing our newest Nepal trip: November 27-December 8, 2023
We're thrilled to announce our upcoming trip to Nepal from November 27 to December 8, 2023. Trek Relief and The Small World are again joining forces for another transformative journey through the Seeds of Hope Program. In remote global communities, limited access to climate-resilient agriculture resources and practices hinders community prosperity and response to climate change. This initiative addresses these challenges and empowers communities for a brighter and self-sustaining future.
Together with our local nonprofit partner, The Small World, we will implement ecological farming techniques to promote self-sufficiency and resilience. We will focus on providing greenhouse supplies, quality seeds, and tailored gatherings and training sessions for women. By doing so, we foster sustainable food systems and amplify women's leadership.
This time, our compassionate trip includes immersive homestays, meaningful volunteering activities, and a camping trek to Mt. Numbur. Experience the exhilaration of trekking off the beaten path to an elevation of 12,730 ft, sleeping under the stars, and being captivated by breathtaking sunrises. Join us for an unforgettable adventure as we adventure with our friends in Nepal and #travelwithpurpose.
We are delighted to announce the recipient of Trek Relief's first-ever Program Creation Grant, Sebastián Arriagada, for his exceptional efforts in making a positive impact in Patagonia. Sebastián's environmental initiatives exemplify the core values of Trek Relief, combining conservation, community engagement, and sustainable practices. His remarkable projects, from initiating community-wide recycling for the first time in a rural region to fostering relationships with the local educators and community, reflect our commitment to conscious travel, respecting nature and communities, and uplifting those who want to make a positive difference in the world.
Sebastián Arriagada's inspiring initiatives in Patagonia, made possible with the help of Sarah Nguyen, reflect their care for environmental conservation. Their latest project has been to develop an organic permaculture teaching garden that teaches sustainable food production and encourages food self-sufficiency while cultivating a greater appreciation for locally sourced resources.
The Trek Relief Board of Directors and the entire team proudly recognize Sebastián's outstanding vision, courage, and dedication in Patagonia. By awarding him this grant, we celebrate his remarkable achievements over these past few years and look forward to witnessing the continued impact of his initiatives. Sebastián serves as an inspiration to all, embodying the spirit of Trek Relief and our mission to maximize our charitable impact on the planet.
March 2023
Trek Relief Expands Garden Project in Villa Cerro Castillo with New Infrastructure and Educational Resources
This month, our third trip to Patagonia was carried out successfully. Between laughter and dancing, our group enthusiastically put up the latest infrastructural additions to “Green Hope,” the organic vegetable garden at the professional technical school in Villa Cerro Castillo. During the volunteer days, Maria Luisa Carillo, our gardener, helped prepare the garden, greenhouse, and compost boxes for the upcoming cold winter months with the help of our volunteers.
We shared our hopes and visions with the faculty and school during the school assembly, locally foraged for wild medicinal plants, and learned together in the outdoor classroom built by Trek Relief.
The funds raised from this group allowed us to accomplish several important objectives in furthering this multi-year project. We built a platform for an outdoor classroom and workshops and incorporated a garden bed with medicinal plants along the greenhouse. Additionally, we built a fence around the existing garden to ward off wild hares and protect the garden from the Patagonian winds. Our volunteers also created an ingenious ramp at the entrance to the greenhouse, which was creatively designed, built, and installed by one of our very own Trek Relief participants (shoutout of appreciation to Brent Lee!)
Furthermore, Trek Relief hosted workshops that were open to the community. The workshops covered medicinal plants, local foraging, processing compost, organic gardening, and collecting seeds. These workshops aimed to build community awareness around the mission of food sovereignty.
The new infrastructure and educational resources will undoubtedly contribute to the long-term success of the garden project in Villa Cerro Castillo. Trek Relief’s recent trip to Patagonia exemplifies the organization's dedication to creating sustainable, long-term solutions for their communities.
January 2023
Our commitment to promoting sustainable travel and townships continues with our third trip to Patagonia
We are excited to announce that our Patagonia × Self-Sufficiency: Food, Flora, & Fauna trip will take place March 12-23, 2023.
We will build on our previous years' work with the Cerro Castillo community. This beautiful, multi-year project has taken many hours of volunteer work, community participation, and dedicated leadership on multiple levels to implement.
Together with our Chilean nonprofit partner, Fundación Renoval, we’ll collaborate with small communities on sustainability projects that ensure this extraordinary landscape's simultaneous protection and enjoyment. Our program implements community-based recyclable waste collection points, organic gardens, logistics, and education on environmentalism and agroecology.
We have just one spot left for this trip - can this be you?
