Kimberley resident Michael Meinig is preparing to embark upon "24 Hours of Hope," a challenge in which he plans to cross-country ski 200 kilometres in 24 hours, to commemorate his 60th birthday and attempt to raise $10,000 for the Kootenay Christian Academy's (KCA) upcoming building expansion.
The challenge will take place in late February along the Kimberley Nordic Club trails, with the exact date still to be set and will be based on weather conditions.
Meinig, who is a KCA parent, has started a website where you can learn more about his campaign, and contribute to his cause.
It can be found at 24hrsofhope.com
"The school's mission and vision is to assist families by providing students with a Christ-centred education to enable students to achieve their maximum potential in a secure and respectful learning environment," he said on his website. "The building expansion will allow more children to enrol and the general fundraising account will provide help in various areas of need."
This isn't the first time he's undertaken a physical challenge to coincide with a life milestone: when he turned 50, Meinig climbed three mountains in three days, to support three different charities. He hopes this new challenge will inspire others to take on challenges of their own.
In 2019, he completed the Everest Running Challenge, which raised money for the food programs in School Districts 5 and 6.
"I also hope people will take this opportunity to achieve goals or challenges themselves with their families or friends towards an active lifestyle," he said. "This could be planning a family ski or hike etc.. As an individual, one could take a ski lesson for the first time or challenge yourself to ski a certain distance or time. Please take this opportunity as motivation for you or your family to try an active goal or challenge.
"You will be amazed at what can be accomplished."
In addition to his website, you can also follow along with Meinig's journey on the KCA Facebook page: facebook.com/kootenaychristianacademy
