By Caroline Pakenham, Association Engagement Manager – Students and Young Professionals
In just a few short weeks, many of us will pack our bags and head to the airport for WEFTEC 2017 in Chicago. For WEF members Gary and Linda De Kock, however, the journey to WEFTEC started several months ago in a canoe on the headwaters of the Wisconsin River. Yes, you read that right: Gary and Linda are traveling to WEFTEC in a canoe!
This husband and wife team will paddle 1,176 river miles, crossing 5 rivers, to make the voyage to WEFTEC by September 29. The goal of Gary and Linda’s “Five Rivers Voyage” is to raise $11,760 (or $10 per river mile) for Water for People’s mission to promote the development of high-quality drinking water and sanitation services, accessible to all, and sustained by strong communities, businesses, and governments.
This won’t be the first time that Gary and Linda travel to WEFTEC by river. The couple started paddling to WEFTEC back in 2014 with a 2,291 mile voyage down the Mississippi River to New Orleans. They also organize the annual Pedal with Purpose bike ride at WEFTEC which raises funds for Water for People.
Before leaving on this year’s voyage, Gary and Linda spoke with me about some of their past journeys to WEFTEC. They shared the challenges they face (whirlpools, alligators, bugs, and bears!) and how they get through each day.
“When you’re looking at the whole voyage it’s really daunting, but as soon as you get on the river you stop doing that,” Linda explained. “You’re looking at the river and what’s ahead of you, wondering what’s going to be around the next bend. And your sense of time and your challenges are narrowed down to the moment.”
Gary and Linda also explained that the most interesting part of their journey is always the people they meet along the way. “We always throw ourselves to the mercy of other people’s kindness” Linda said. “They always come through which is pretty nice.”
As I listened to Gary and Linda reflect on their past voyages and discuss their upcoming trip, they reminded me of what also makes WEFTEC so great: the people. People come to WEFTEC from near and far to not only expand their knowledge base, but to give back to the local water environment and improve access to safe water and sanitation services.
If you (like me) are curious to learn more about the De Kock’s Five Rivers Voyage, you can watch their launch day message here or follow their journey on their location tracker and on Facebook. Visit their Crowdrise site to pledge your support. You’ll also have the chance to catch up with them in person at the WEF Community Service Project, Jammin’4Water, and Pedal with Purpose Bike Ride.
Thanks to everyone who is working hard to make a difference at WEFTEC this year!
Posted (9/6/2017)
Photo courtesy of Gary and Linda De Kock
(Click to zoom in)
Caroline Pakenham is a former association engagement manager for WEF’s Students and Young Professionals (SYPs) program. In this role, she plans, coordinates and executes a variety of SYP activities and serves as a resource to WEF Members.
