Intrepid Travel is giving away a free trip valued at $3,500 AUD as part of its annual charity event, the Blue Dragon Marathon Walk.
Taking place on Sunday, 8 September, the marathon walk raises funds for Vietnam’s Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, a not-for-profit and longstanding Intrepid Foundation partner providing rescue care, shelter, legal advocacy and long-term support to victims of human trafficking.
The Marathon Walk is the Intrepid Foundation’s flagship fundraising event, bringing together over 1,000 people across major global cities like Melbourne, London, Hanoi, Singapore and Bangkok. Participants can sign up to walk as an individual or as part of a team.
Eligible walkers will receive an entry into the draw to win an Intrepid trip of their choice for every $350 raised.
Rallying industry friends and colleagues to get moving for a good cause, Intrepid Chair Darrell Wade said: “Raising just $250 can keep a child at risk in school for one year. $350 can reunite a trafficked victim with their family and provide them with emergency support to start over.”
“By fundraising or sponsoring the Blue Dragon Marathon Walk, you can easily yet dramatically change the lives of children and families in need,” adds Wade.
Vietnam was the operator’s top selling market in 2023, carrying 9,900 customers.
“A hugely popular international destination for Intrepid and the industry at large, Vietnamese communities have always welcomed us with open hearts and generous hospitality,” Intrepid Foundation General Manager Biheng Zhang added.
“Participating in or sponsoring the marathon walk is our chance as an industry and as travellers to give back.”
Now in its seventh year, Intrepid has set an ambitious $500,000 fundraising target.
The company is inviting industry to gather their teams, sign up for a meander (3km), micro (5km), mini (10km), half (21km) or full (42km) marathon on the fundraising page, and join them on the pavement to empower young people in Vietnam. One hundred percent of donations will go directly to Blue Dragon.
Local walks in Melbourne will depart from Hampton Life Saving Club, with a free BBQ on return.
