Fundraising Story

Once every 10 years or so, I ask my friends and family to help me raise funds for a worthy organization supporting people in need. During the intervening years, I support my friends in their charitable endeavors. 10 years ago, I rode Bike Zambia and we collectively raised over $100,000 for children in Zambia, one of the poorest nations in the world, while bicycling through Zambian jungles and villages meeting its warm and wonderful citizens. This year, I was introduced to Tokens of Life Uganda (TOLU) and their CEO, Christopher Mukasa, by my longtime friend Michael Stromme, who has devoted his life to assisting children in Africa. TOLU has organized an all-volunteer fundraising marathon for the last two years and I am advising them on ways to increase participation in the upcoming May 2026 3rd edition of their marathon. As a result of our brainstorming, they have added a 10K, half-marathon and biking option along with the marathon, making this a very family-friendly event. And, while people do have the option to come and run the race and leave, basically making this a long weekend, TOLU is also offering a week-long all-inclusive adventure, introducing participants to the history and culture of Uganda while exploring the beautiful landscape (Buvuma Island is a birdwatcher's paradise), experiencing wildlife and meeting many wonderful Ugandans in their towns and villages. You get yourself to Uganda in May 2026 and Christopher and his team take care of the rest. Basically a marathon tour except at a fraction of the cost for such usual tours. And your registration fee goes to support poverty-stricken children and families in need. Zander and I are going for the week adventure followed by the marathon and we hope that many of you will join us by registering here: https://tokensoflifeuganda.org/marathon. For those unable to travel to Uganda in May 2026, please consider making a donation to TOLU via my fundraising page: https://www.tokensoflifeuganda.org/fundraiser?Richard..Ervais&u=4. 100% of your donation will be used to uplift poverty-stricken children and communities through funds raised for maternal health, education, child care, HIV/AIDS awareness, and essential basic needs among others. This is especially crucial after the dismantling of USAID. And, don't hesitate to reach out to me at rervais@gmail.com should you have any questions or want to discuss. Thanks for reading and hope to see you in Uganda in May 2026! Richard