Projects To Help Children
Monday, May 11th, 2009On my last journey to India, I was incredibly moved by some of the local children we met there. Friendly and quick to say hello, these children seemed happy, though they have little by our standards. Perhaps because I myself come from India, I found them to be endearing and felt a distinct connection to them.
As founder of Himalayan Boot Camp, I envision my company as one that gives back to the community. Being that Himalayan Boot Camp is rooted in India – in its culture, food, and the adventures India offers – I believe some of the local villages which we traverse on our Boot Camp adventures should benefit from our business endeavors and success. Himalayan Boot Camp, by itself and through its guests, can be the vehicle for contributing, even in a small way, to the quality of life for some local children.
One way in which I propose to do this is to provide my guests with an opportunity to give something small yet meaningful. After making inquiries, I have learned that school supplies are in great demand. English reading books for children ages three to twelve are especially in short supply.
Willing Himalayan Boot Camp guests could bring a book or two for this age group, along with a few pencils and erasers. At a small get-together, my guests can visit and interact with some of the local children, and give them each a gift of a book and some school supplies. I know it would be an unforgettable moment for the child and personally rewarding for any guest who chooses to participate.
Another project which I will soon be implementing is what I call my “Socks For Children” project (I am working on a more formal name for the project). As you might imagine, the Himalayan foothills are extremely cold during the winter, and many children could use good quality, warm, and well-insulated socks. In light of that, each October when I travel to India for our boot camps, I will take with me a large suitcase full of 500 pairs of socks. 250 needy children will get 2 pairs of socks each. I am certain that these socks will mean so much and will help prevent the recipients from suffering from cold during the harsh days of winter. Contributors to this project may be, but need not be, Himalayan Boot Camp guests.
If you are interested in being part of the socks project, send me an email to connie@himalayanbootcamp.com and I will provide more details as I get this project up and running.

