The latest Jeromy Farkas feat for the Alex Community Health Centre summited the fundraising mark they’d set – and then some.
Jeromy’s Climb for Community Health raised more than $43,000 for The Alex, with an initial goal of $25,000. Once the initial donor amount was paired with matching contributions from McLeod Law LLP, they popped it up to $43,074.80.
Farkas, a former Calgary city councillor and mayoral contender, had set out to hike up 25 peaks in 25 days west of Calgary to raise money. The conclusion of this fundraiser coincided with a short film Farkas screened at Canyon Meadows theatre last week on his Pacific Crest Trail adventure that raised $250,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters Calgary.
The Alex provides wraparound healthcare, housing and social and wellness programs to thousands of vulnerable Calgarians.
Joy Bowen-Eyre, CEO of The Alex, said that being in the right place at the right time is key to meeting the needs of these folks. Having the extra resources to carry out their work is critical.
“We are grateful to Jeromy for his dedication and support,” Bowen-Eyre said.
“This incredible feat has not only raised much-needed funds for our organization, but it also raised awareness about the important work we do.”
All told, Farkas achieved 58,800 feet of elevation gain and loss – the equivalent of hiking Mount Everest twice, or the Calgary Tower 114 times. He faced a variety of terrain, bitter cold and other weather hazards. At one point, the campaign had to be halted due to avalanche concerns.
“I’m thrilled to have completed this challenge and incredibly grateful to see so many Calgarians come through for such a worthy cause,” said Farkas.
“The Alex provides vital support to Calgarians in need, and I know that these efforts will make a difference in the lives of those facing difficult challenges.”
On any given night, according to The Alex, there are 6,000 Calgarians with housing challenges, or without a home. Many live with complex health or addiction issues, they said.
The fundraising website will stay open until Feb. 9 for others to make last-minute contributions.
