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Challenge FAQs

Fundraising

Before departure...

The trip itself...

Fundraising

How do I go about raising the money?

When you sign up to a VSO Challenge we will send you a comprehensive fundraising pack full of tips on how to raise the money, including advice from past fundraisers. Our website also has a dedicated area to help you to fundraise, and we have a team of fundraisers here at VSO who are on hand to offer you any ideas and advice you may need. Our first tip would be to set up an online fundraising page at www.justgiving.com/vsofundraising, and then to investigate whether your company or local businesses will be able to support you.

What happens if I can’t raise the money?

If you cannot raise the money in time, we will ask you to make up the costs yourself in order to take part in the event. If this is not possible, we will offer you the opportunity to join another challenge in the future, giving you longer to keep fundraising. If you do have to cancel from the event, we will refund your sponsorship to your donors directly, if requested by them. Please note that cancellation charges do apply if cancelling within 8 weeks of departure date, (although travel insurance may cover cancellation costs, depending on the circumstance).

Will people think they're paying for me to go on holiday?

VSO organises these events to make increase our income and enable us to continue our work throughout the world, not to send people on holiday! Explain to people that you are taking part in a challenge (similar to a marathon or any other sponsored event) and that it will require dedication, commitment and training to a) raise the money and b) complete the trip. The more you talk about the charity, the more they will realise how important your hard work is! You could always choose to pay towards the costs of the event yourself, so you can reassure your sponsors that 100% of their donation will benefit VSO.

How much of my fundraising will pay for the actual costs of the Challenge?

About half of the sponsorship target will be used to pay the costs of the trip, although this varies slightly for each event. Your deposit is NOT included towards the sponsorship target, but does also go towards covering costs.

When does the sponsorship money need to be paid in by?

The sponsorship money needs to be paid to VSO ten weeks before the date of departure. This is because we have to pay the tour operator costs in advance, and have to ensure that every person we pay for has raised all the money. Some people find it difficult to ask for the money up front, but it is a lot harder to get the money in after the event! Your sponsors will generally be understanding about this.

Are there any extra 'hidden' costs?

We will let you know in the event pack exactly what is involved in signing up to the trip. Your personal costs, including payment of airport tax, insurance, items on the kit list, personal expenses, tips for the local guides and porters, payment for visas, and medical forms or vaccinations (where required) are not included in the sponsorship target.

Before departure...

Can anyone sign up?

Yes, provided they are over the age of 18. However, everyone taking part is asked to have a medical form (supplied by VSO) completed by their doctor to confirm their suitability to take part. Your application on to the event may be refused if the event doctor believes your health would be in jeopardy if you took part. All participants must also have adequate personal travel insurance.

What sorts of people sign up to take part in VSO Challenges?

You will come across a wide mix of people on an event like this, and you are likely to make some life-long friends! All ages take part, from all backgrounds.

Will I meet the other people on the challenge before departure?

Yes! We will organise an Information Day about the event, which is the perfect opportunity to meet your group. We will also discuss fundraising ideas, the trip itself, and answer any questions you may have about anything!

How fit do I need to be?

Required fitness levels depend on the trip you are taking part in and your current level of fitness. These trips are not targeted at experienced trekkers, so we will have people of all abilities on the event. We do advise that everyone should train for the event, as the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy yourself! We also advise people to go at their own pace on the event – it is not a race, and the idea is to enjoy yourself!

How do I go about training?

If you have not done any exercise for some time we recommend you visit your doctor before starting your training. We will provide you with training guidelines when you sign up and will keep in touch to see how it’s all going!

The trip itself...

What kit will I need to take?

We will provide you with a kit list when you sign up.

How are VSO Challenges Worldwide organised?

VSO organises the events through a reputable (ATOL protected) tour operator in the UK. They arrange the details of the trip and use a local ground agent to arrange all our accommodation, meals, transfers etc. The trips are very well organised and you will be well looked after, so all you have to concentrate on is the challenge ahead!

Are the Challenges safe?

Yes. The tour operator and ground agents are very experienced in organising challenges such as these and you will be accompanied by VSO staff, a tour leader, a doctor as well as English-speaking local guides and porters who are all there to ensure your safety and enjoyment of the trip. The routes we take are well established and known well by our guides. As an international organisation VSO is also aware of any rising political, health or safety issues affecting the countries we visit.

Can I extend my stay after the Challenge?

Yes (subject to availability and on a first-come-first-served basis). We will put you in touch with the tour operator directly who will be able to reschedule your flight home and help you plan a holiday if required. Please note that there will be extra costs for extending your stay and you will need to plan this well in advance.