By Holly Sherlock
On a golden September day in Mariposa, California, a group of strangers gathered with a shared mission: to hike across the rugged, breathtaking landscape of Yosemite, united in their goal to create a world free of hunger, poverty, and displacement. Together, they raised an inspiring US$33,802 for Church World Service. Though ready for the physical journey, perhaps what they couldn’t have anticipated was the deeper, transformative journey they would take—or the lifelong friendships they would form along the way.
Holly Sherlock, the Business Innovation Manager from Inspired Adventures, joined the team on their adventure. Upon her return, she raved about the beautiful experience she’d had, both in being surrounded by nature and in spending the week with an inspiring and diverse team.
Since joining Inspired Adventures in 2022, I’ve had the privilege of supporting many charity organisations on fundraising journeys. But when the opportunity to join the 2024 Hike for Hope with Church World Service came up, I felt a unique excitement. In the weeks before the trek, anticipation bubbled over—Yosemite had been on my bucket list for years, and I couldn’t wait to see it for myself. When we finally arrived, the beauty of the landscape was more staggering than I’d imagined. My jaw was practically on the floor the entire time we were there. The sweeping valleys, towering cliffs, and the ancient sequoias humbled us with their grandeur. Every challenging step made the journey even more rewarding.
While I had expected some challenging treks and beautiful scenery, what surprised me the most was just how impactful the team of people who joined me would be. They truly made this experience unforgettable. Our group was as diverse as they come—individuals from all over the United States, brought together by a shared compassion and dedication to Church World Service’s mission. We had seasoned hikers, nature enthusiasts, and a few brave souls camping for the first time. One of the best parts of this trek was the ability to chat about real problems, be vulnerable, poke fun at each other, and laugh. I have special memories of the gorgeous Annette and Jesse, two of the most vivacious and wonderful women I've had the pleasure of meeting, with such ambition and a desire for change. Conversations that began with laughter often ended with heartfelt insights on resilience, change, and the importance of compassion.
One of the most memorable connections I made was with Suzanne. She was the first CWS supporter to register for the trek, and we’d been in touch for months leading up to the adventure. Despite our 30-year age gap and different backgrounds—she, a Pennsylvania native living in Colorado, and I, a Sydneysider now based in British Columbia—we instantly clicked in person. It felt like finding a lifelong friend. We shared countless laughs, stories, and moments of gratitude for the unique path that had brought us together.
Each day brought new challenges and new vistas. Climbing up rocky trails and through ancient sequoias, with the crisp mountain air filling our lungs, there was a collective awe that we carried silently. This landscape had a way of humbling us and grounding us in the importance of our mission.
Patti, from CWS, played a central role in helping us connect to the cause that brought us together. Her warmth and knowledge created a safe space where everyone felt supported, and she made sure we all understood the deep impact of our fundraising efforts. Thanks to Patti, we didn’t just see ourselves as a group of hikers but as part of something much larger. Her presence and guidance were invaluable, bringing each of us closer to the mission we shared and to each other.The team made it clear that their commitment to CWS didn’t end with the Hike for Hope—they intended to keep fundraising and supporting the cause. Along the way, they formed close friendships they wanted to carry forward, a perfect outcome from such a transformative adventure on every level.
Around the campfire, we shared more than stories; we shared our hopes, fears, and dedication to a common cause. We became more than a team; we were a family united by purpose. As the trek continued, it became clear that our support for Church World Service went beyond fundraising—it was about building a compassionate community dedicated to change. Each person’s journey reflected a desire for a more just and sustainable world, and it was a reminder that while the trek would end, the mission would continue.
Looking back, I realise the Hike for Hope was so much more than a physical journey—it was a reminder that even small steps taken together can bring monumental change. And while we left the trails and returned home, our mission is far from over. We’re committed to pushing forward for a world where hope is accessible to everyone, and together, we know it’s within reach.
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