Protecting Colorado's High Peaks Step by Step

Introduction

Hello, friends! My name is Paul Berteau, and I'm excited to share my story and embark on a journey to support the incredible work of Colorado Fourteeners Initiative (CFI) through a unique walking fundraiser. For the past 26 years, I've had the privilege of contributing to CFI, and now I'm eager to do even more to help preserve and protect our beloved Fourteeners.

My connection to CFI runs deep. I've always had a passion for exploring the beauty of Colorado's mountains, and reaching the summits of all 54 Fourteeners was a personal goal of mine. However, in 2010, an unexpected skiing incident altered my hiking trajectory. Despite this setback, my dedication to supporting CFI never wavered. Instead of climbing steep inclines, I turned to walking as a means of staying connected to the outdoors and giving back to causes close to my heart.

Turning Steps into Support

In 2022, I embarked on a mission to turn my daily walks into a fundraising initiative. That year, I surpassed my initial goal of walking 1,500 miles, and with the support of friends and family, I raised nearly $30,000 for organizations like Food Bank of the Rockies and The Cancer Support Community. Last year, I continued my walking efforts, dedicating miles to The ALS Association.

Now, I'm thrilled to extend this initiative to benefit CFI in 2024. My goal is to walk 1,500 miles throughout the year, and I invite you to join me on this journey by pledging your support. Rather than tracking individual pledges per mile, I encourage you to consider a donation that reflects your commitment to CFI's mission.

Matching Challenge

To kickstart our fundraising efforts, I'm pledging to match the first $500 of donations. This serves as an incentive for early contributions and emphasizes the importance of collective support in reaching our fundraising goals.

Throughout my journey we will share photos, videos, and updates so we can celebrate our achievements and inspire others to join our cause. Your generosity will not only contribute to the maintenance and preservation of Colorado's Fourteeners but also help raise awareness and support for CFI's vital work. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference. By supporting CFI, you're investing in the future of our cherished mountains and ensuring that generations to come can experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Colorado's highest peaks.

Conclusion

As I lace up my walking shoes and embark on this journey, I am grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact alongside fellow supporters of CFI. Together, let's take steps toward protecting our beloved Fourteeners. Thank you for your generosity, your support, and your commitment to preserving the natural wonders of Colorado.