Fund the Next Generation of Change-Makers
The Otesha Project is one of our members who is currently in the Summer Challenge. I had the chance to catch up with Julia D’Costa, Communications Coordinator, at The Otesha Project. Here’s what she had to say about using crowdfunding.
Tell us about the project that is in the Summer Challenge.
The Otesha Project is actively looking to build The Andrew Wolf Bursary Fund. We are hoping to build this fund in order to support those that are underrepresented in the environmental activist community to go on an Otesha bike tour. Our aim is to make our programming more accessible to a wider audience and to break down barriers that may have prevented them from participating in the past.
- On September 16, 2010, in a tragic accident, the Otesha Highlands and Islands Tour lost a dear friend: Andrew Wolf.
Why this project in particular?
The Otesha Project always strives to empower Canadians. The Andrew Wolf Bursary Fund does this by engaging underrepresented people and giving them a platform from which to raise their voices and share their ideas on sustainability.
Have you ever used crowdfunding before?
The Otesha Project has not previously used crowdfunding per se for one specific project, but we are excited to explore this new approach to developing the organization.
Why did you decide to try crowdfunding with Fundchange?
Otesha does not currently employ any government funding, grants, or corporate sponsorships. Evidently, we rely heavily on the support of our donors. Their donations enable us to continue doing the work that the Otesha community believes makes a positive difference, without any compromise. Crowdfunding with Fundchange enables us to stay true to our vision of promoting a more sustainable world through individual, everyday choices while giving a concrete project for donors to develop.
What are you doing to promote your project?
We are sharing our Andrew Wolf Bursary Fund project with our networks and supporters through avenues such as word of mouth and through our social networks.
It’s about a week into the challenge, any lessons learned so far?
We have learned that some supporters may “Vote” for the Fund, but not “Like” it on Facebook because they are under the impression that these do the same thing, especially if they do not have access to a Facebook account
The Otesha Project is changing the world by teaching and empowering individuals to be change makers. Following the principle that every single person has the power to change the world, the volunteers of The Otesha Project are teaching Canadians how to find their own power and use it to create a better world.
Words don’t do this amazing project justice; you HAVE to see their video. Honestly, it made me want to yell off my balcony that YES! YOU CAN CHANGE THE WORLD.
If you have ever wanted to make a real and lasting difference, please consider supporting The Otesha Project by clicking here.
