A different kind of Fundraising
Nearing the end of 2021, the Legal Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade reflected on a suitable fundraiser for a team of 2, to raise funds for Christmas. Instead of the usual raffle, social, walkathon or hikeathon by 2 people, the idea for a Fit-A-thon was created.
Developed with the assistance of Coach Tuiloma Walter Imo of MY Fit, the concept for a Fit-A-thon was simple. Members of the Team would be required to complete a specific number of repetitions for selected exercise movements. The exercise movements selected were: Squats, Overhead Press, Deadlifts, Farmers Carry and Rowing. These were considered functional movements that can strengthen muscles to prepare them for daily tasks and activities and thereby help improve daily life. The number of repetitions, ONE THOUSAND [Rowing was 10,000m].
The heart of the fundraiser was to create a sense of community and encourage healthier living by inviting family, friends and even work colleagues to join and help complete the repetitions for each movement.
On the 13 November 2021, more than 60 people turned up in support of the fundraiser. Either to participate in completing reps, donate to the cause, cheer along the participants or even just out of curiosity. What was initially planned to take 3 hours took only 1 hour as eager and enthusiastic supporters subbed in for the 3 person Legal Team.
The most common feedback of the day was that we should have aimed to complete more reps!! Ms Constance Tafua-Rivers Lesa (ACEO Legal Division) speaking on the day noted that this event was organized for two purposes. Firstly, to promote a “healthy mind, healthy spirit, and healthy body” for the participants, and most importantly, to fundraise for a youth group in need of charity.
The Legal Division would like to thank everyone who: participated on the day (especially the MY Fit community); generously donated their money; provided healthy snacks and even sacrificed their time to volunteer and assist in organizing the event. Special mention also to the My Fit Gym Coach and staff for making the gym and resources available for the event.