In August 2024, Inspired Adventures and Wayside Chapel joined forces for their inaugural fundraising adventure, bringing together an energetic and passionate group to trek the iconic Larapinta Trail in the heart of Australia.
Wayside Chapel are a Sydney-based organisation that provide essential support, connection, and care for people facing homelessness, mental health challenges, and social isolation. They offer services including crisis support, meals, showers, and community programs, designed to foster a welcoming environment for anyone in need.
Throughout the Larapinta adventure, the team of 18 were captivated by the rugged beauty of the outback landscape and embraced the physical and mental challenges of the journey. The team raised an impressive $110,907 to support Wayside Chapel’s vital work providing love, care, and support to individuals experiencing homelessness and crisis.
Thinking about taking the leap into adventure fundraising with your organisation? Here’s what you can expect to achieve from a partnership with Inspired Adventures.
Larapinta, Australia 2024
18 participants
$110,907 raised
Avg raised per person $6,161
Goals & Impact
Campaign objectives
The adventure was designed to deepen supporters' connection to First Nations’ culture and to foster a stronger understanding of Wayside Chapel’s mission to build a community free of barriers, embodying their vision of “no us and them.” As part of this unique opportunity, participants walked alongside Jon Owen, Wayside Chapel’s CEO and Pastor, and Byron, one of the chapel’s visitors, creating authentic conversations and a powerful sense of community.
In addition to raising funds, this trek was a significant step in diversifying Wayside Chapel’s Community Fundraising portfolio. By adding unique, immersive experiences like the Larapinta Trek, Wayside aims to broaden its reach and develop sustainable funding streams, ensuring they can continue and expand their impact in the years to come.
Campaign outcomes
The trek received a glowing 5/5 rating from participants, with strong enthusiasm and early sign-ups that filled half the spots within the first month after launching in March 2024. This group of adventurers were strong in spirit and powerhouse fundraisers too. Many were driven by a personal connection to Wayside’s mission and the unique opportunity to walk alongside Wayside’s CEO, Jon Owen, and beneficiary Byron. The dedication of each of the participants shone through in their fundraising efforts, shining a spotlight on Wayside Chapel’s mission.
The impact of this experience has extended far beyond the trail. The participants, who bonded deeply throughout the trek, have remained close, keeping in touch regularly through a dedicated WhatsApp group. Two months on from the adventure, they continue to share updates, memories, and plans to support Wayside Chapel for many years to come. This community’s lasting connection is a true testament to the power of shared purpose and the lasting friendships formed along the way.
Spotlight on some of the incredible participants
The participants in this fundraising adventure each brought unique stories and motivations, turning the trek into a meaningful and personal journey of healing, honour, and community support.
Byron Gray, a beneficiary of Wayside Chapel, was given the chance to participate in this adventure as part of his journey of recovery. His story has inspired the entire Wayside community, and as a meaningful celebration of his sobriety, he was invited to join the team on this trek. The experience held deep personal significance for Byron, as it allowed him to reconnect with his heritage by walking on the land of his ancestors—a powerful step in both his healing journey and his connection to his cultural roots.
Elizabeth Maniscalco was one of several participants whose connection to Wayside had come from the profound loss of a child. This trek became a deeply meaningful way for her to honour her son’s life. Through this journey, Elizabeth aimed to create something positive and inspiring out of her grief, dedicating her efforts to a cause close to her heart. She raised an extraordinary $14,031, a testament to her commitment and the strength she drew from the team surrounding her. Supported and encouraged by her fellow trekkers, Elizabeth found comfort and empowerment in their shared purpose, making this experience both healing and transformative.
Sangeeta Leach, a dedicated board member of Wayside Chapel, eagerly embraced the fundraising challenge, creating an impactful online campaign titled “$60 for 60kms” in honour of Wayside’s 60th anniversary. Her approach invited supporters to donate $60 each as she prepared to trek 60 kilometres, a tribute both to the journey and Wayside’s legacy. Thanks to her compelling message and the enthusiasm it inspired, Sangeeta reached her initial fundraising goal in under two months. She not only met her target but well exceeded it, raising $6,686, demonstrating her commitment and rallying a strong network of support for Wayside’s mission. When asked to describe the experience of trekking for Wayside Chapel, she summed up the experience as “rewarding”.
What the team loved
What were the highlights of your Inspired Adventure?
“I loved my adventure. Thank you very much. Jillian [Inspired Adventures staff member] was responsive and super supportive.”
- Sangeeta Leach
“The highlights for me were meeting new people, challenging myself physically and seeing new and incredibly beautiful parts of our country!”
- Nicola Toro
“Our guides ensured the whole adventure was perfect; from food, to camping, the walks and the knowledge they shared. The whole trip was fantastic.”
- Carolyn Rae
More Information
Want to find out how Inspired Adventures can leverage the passion of your supporters to yield impressive results? Enquire now.
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