This Summer we embarked on a journey that had a major impact not only on us, but on our community as a whole.Together with about 90 other Royal LePage colleagues from across Canada, divided into 3 groups, each hiking 1 day apart, we completed what is known as the Charity Challenge for Shelter – raising money and awareness to help women and children escape domestic violence.

This was by far the most physically challenging thing we had ever done.It was also one of the most rewarding endeavours of our lives.

It was a bonding experience like no other.The process of facing adversity as a group has a tremendous effect on team building and friendship. We started the hike with 29 complete strangers in our group, and by day 5, we were like one big family.

It was a spiritual journey for each of us – the time you spend in your own head & heart over a 115 km hike is priceless. It’s the best kind of therapy out there!

It was a chance to see one of the most beautiful, un-spoiled, natural landscapes left on this planet. If you’ve never been to Iceland – please add it to your bucket list. It truly is a place of magic.

It was a reminder of how lucky we are.What a humbling experience.Not a day passed that we didn’t think about the women and children who have to live their lives in fear and danger.No matter how difficult the hike became… we knew it was nothing compared to what some of these families have to endure.

And we have you to thank every single one of you who supported our efforts, who made a donation, or who sent us an encouraging word… this success was thanks to you.We raised over $15,000 for the West Island Women’s Shelter, and collectively raised over $655,000 for shelters across Canada.

Sincerely,

Mark, Sean & Kim