NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — This is a bucket list item for many, hiking Mt. Kilimanjaro. One man is marking his 60 birthday by hitting the trail himself, but it is more than just a big trip.
Buddy Teaster is the CEO of Soles4Souls.
"Soles4Souls turns shoes and clothing into opportunities for education and employment so they can have a more hopeful future," the organization's website said.
While preparing for this nine day hike, he is trying to raise $60,000 dollars for the organization.
"I thought there's a way to not just make it about me and 60 and the climb, but to tie it into the work that we do," Teaster said.
He has raised nearly $40,000, but if he hits his goal, it is the equivalent of buying 15,000 pairs of new athletic shoes for the Soles4Souls program helping kids experiencing homelessness.
Teaster also wants to help out the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project also known as KPAP, by donating 250 pairs of boots to the KPAP lending library.
These are the people who help carry gear.
Here’s a beautiful story of how one mother turned her grief journey into a gathering of gratitude… and organ donation awareness.
Robb Coles highlights a special event organized by Cari Hollis – whose 26-year old son Austin died two years ago. Austin agreed to be an organ donor – and that single gesture saved multiple lives.
Cari reached out to as many recipients she could find – several of whom traveled to Nashville for an emotional celebration in Austin’s honor. One woman – whose life was saved by receiving Austin’s lungs – put it simply: “He’s my angel”.
- Rhori Johnston
