Every year, Abu Dhabi’s residents participate in Gulf for Good, an adventurous programme aimed at helping others. Interested in getting involved? Then read on…
If your list of New Year’s resolutions includes getting in shape, having an adventure, seeing the world and helping others, look no further than Gulf for Good (G4G). The organisation organises adventure challenges around the globe. These physical journeys push participants to travel, exercise and grow both physically and mentally. In order to participate in a Gulf for Good challenge, participants must raise money, which is donated to local charities in the country in which the challenge takes place.
Gulf for Good was established in March 2001 and operates under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. The organisation has four objectives: to bring together Gulf nationals and residents for a good cause, to encourage people to push their own limits, to show people the value in helping others and to donate to worthwhile projects.
In the past 12 years, Gulf for Good has completed 44 challenges, raising more than Dhs7,000,000 for schools, hospitals, orphanages and medical equipment in 23 countries in the Middle East, Asia, South America and Africa.
Gulf for Good’s strategy governor, Tricia Evans, says, ‘Looking forward, in 2014 we aim to expand our reach and get more people from around the Gulf involved in our G4G challenges. One of our goals is to mobilise corporate community and organise more challenges for organisations, thus becoming actively entwined in corporate social responsibility offerings across the region.’
The New Year brings new and exciting Gulf for Good challenges, too, with participants visiting Laos in south east Asia, Morocco, Tanzania and Mongolia.
Laos
For cycling enthusiasts, the Mighty Mekong challenge offers a six-day cycling challenge. Cyclists will travel 500km along the banks of the Mekong River in southern Laos, past colonial towns, Hindu temples and traditional Laotian villages. The challenge will raise money for Child’s Dream, a Laotian charitable organisation dedicated to empowering marginalised children and youths in the Mekong sub-region. Sponsorship cash will be used to construct five new classrooms, provide furniture and set up better hygienic facilities for 500 children of neighbouring villages in southern Laos. The Laos challenge will take place February 28 to March 8.
Morocco
Participants doing the High Atlas challenge in Morocco will climb Mount Toubkal, which, at 4,167m, is the highest peak in north Africa. But perhaps more meaningful will be the money that they will raise for Education for All, a Moroccan non-governmental organisation that provides opportunities for girls from villages across the region to continue their education in secondary institutions. This challenge will span June 13 to 21.
Tanzania
Almost all adventure enthusiasts have Kilimanjaro on their ‘to do’ list. Gulf for Good’s trek to the roof of Africa challenge gives these thrill-seekers a chance to meet this goal while supporting a good cause. This Tanzanian challenge will raise money to build classrooms at Sumaye, a Tanzanian primary school. The Tanzania Adventure will take place from July 4 to 11.
Mongolia
Challenge-members can bike across Mongolia in the wilds of Mongolia challenge. With mountains, gorges and lakes, bikers will test their endurance on this 300km trek. This challenge will take place October 3-11.
Does Gulf for Good sound too good to be true? Tricia Evans tells you all you need to know about participating in a challenge
What does Gulf for Good require of its participants?
There is a registration fee of Dhs2,200 for each of the challenges and minimum sponsorship requirements of Dhs17,500 for the Laos challenge, Dhs14,500 for the Morocco challenge, Dhs19,500 for the Tanzania challenge and Dhs18,500 for the Mongolia challenge. Participants must also have a certain level of physical fitness in order to make sure they can safely partake in the challenges. Other than that, all we ask is for group members to bring determination and a sense of humour.
Will Gulf for Good help potential challengers prepare for the programmes?
Yes, Gulf for Good will help with ideas for where to get sponsorship, as well as training and fitness suggestions, safety and medical advice, and clothing and equipment recommendations.
What does Gulf for Good provide on the challenges?
To help you conquer your challenge Gulf for Good provides flights and transfers, accommodation (on a double occupancy basis), food, guides, bikes and medical support if needed. Insurance, however, is not included.
How do participants sign up for Gulf for Good Challenges?
Visit www.gulf4good.org and download the registration form for your desired challenge. Send the completed form along with a cheque or draft for the required deposit to Gulf for Good PO Box 506006 Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
To learn more about Gulf for Good, visit www.gulf4good.com.
