Hi Everyone!
Every May since 2016, with the help of my family, friends and colleagues, I completed this life-changing challenge.
In the spring of 2024, I will once more be participating in the Trailblaze Challenge benefiting Make-A-Wish Central & Western North Carolina. In just one amazing day, I will be trekking 28.3 miles across the Foothills Trail. The goal is to complete this extreme course in one very long day, rain or shine AND raise $2,500 for Make-A-Wish to grant wishes for children with life-threatening medical conditions!
I have decided to take on this challenge to raise awareness as well as money for Make-A-Wish. Make-A-Wish grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Make-A-Wish is the largest wish granting organization in the world with 62 chapters in the U.S. and its territories. The Central & Western North Carolina chapter covers 51 counties from Burlington west and has granted more than 6,000 wishes since 1985. In 2024, the chapter plans on granting more than 400 wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions at an average cost of $7,500 per wish.
I am taking on this extreme endeavor in order to be a part of something bigger than myself. I’ve climbed many peaks and tackled intense terrain over the past 40 years. In talking about our experiences, we realized that many children will not have the opportunity to take on a mountain or experience the wilderness as we have. It provides me with great strength and courage to know that my actions are contributing to such a worthy cause.
With your help, I know that I can surpass my personal goal. Please consider supporting my efforts by donating what you can. All donations are appreciated-every cent is important. Ask if your company has matching funds for their employees. Sponsorship opportunities are available and a great way to advertise your company. It will make a difference.
Please be assured that your generous gift will be used efficiently and effectively—as every dollar of revenue raised by the Trailblaze Challenge will go toward granting wishes for children in our local community. Every dollar raised stays right here in North Carolina.
Making a donation is easy and secure! Just click the link to my page at the bottom of the email, and then click on the Give Now button. Your contribution will be credited to my fundraising. Any amount you can give is greatly appreciated!
That's why our collective help is needed to ensure that we provide hope, strength and joy to another child waiting on their one true wish.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children battling life-threatening medical conditions.
Thank you for helping me recognize this special occasion and for supporting the mission of Make-A-Wish!!
Sincerely,
John Engle III
The Make-A-Wish Wizard!