What the Oxfam Hike is For

I've been asked so many questions about Oxfam that I figured I should just write about it and just tell everyone to read this blog. :P

So let me start with Oxfam. Oxfam International is an NGO focused on alleviating poverty and injustice in more than 100 countries. For example, in the Philippines, Oxfam is involved in different development and relief projects such as setting up water wells in poor communities and also providing relief to typhoon victims. In Thailand, Oxfam has been helping to provide affordable medicine to the masses and building community schools.

The 100km hike to be held in May in Japan is a fundraising event organized by Oxfam. It is also held in other countries such as UK, HK and Australia. The funds raised are intended to help the various development projects in different countries. Find more details on how the money is used here.

On May 22nd to 24th, 250 four-member teams will attempt a 100-km hike in 48 hours. The trails are tough and some hiking has to be done at night. In previous years, some teams chose not to sleep and finished the hike in around 25 hours. Most of the teams slept for about 3-4 hours in campsites or at checkpoints and then finished the hike in 30-40 hours. Last year, only 93 teams out of 200 were able to finish with four members! The winning team though ran all the way through 100 kms and finished in 16 hours. Pretty amazing.

Apart from the physical challenge, each team must also raise at least Y120,000 (in addition to the Y60,000 registration fee). This is no easy feat, especially in this current global economic crisis. In any case, this hiking event is a great opportunity to help others. In whatever form or amount, my team would greatly appreciate everyone's support.