A Cut Above the Everest
Conquering Kilimanjaro. Say that five times fast. Ben Powers, a Pinehurst resident and Army veteran, is preparing to summit Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania to raise funds and awareness for communities in need of clean water with the Conquering Kili program, through the Chris Long Foundation.
Ben spent the last five years of his time with the 3rd Special Forces Group. He was drawn to the need for clean water in Africa because of his own experiences while working out of a small embassy program. He says going back “is a nice way to continue helping in a different way.”
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and the ascent will take Ben six days. Each new Conquering Kili class accepts the challenge to embark for the summit, a walk that represents the miles that many African women journey on a daily basis to fetch water for their families.
Prior to the climb, Ben and others in the Conquering Kili program will see the impact firsthand by visiting communities in Tanzania that have received wells through program. Ben leaves for Africa Feb. 19.
If this story has peaked your interest, show your support by coming to Hatchet Brewing Co. Tuesday, Feb. 14, 6-10 p.m. for a Pint Night fundraiser. A portion of proceeds from sales all day long will be donated to the organization in support of Ben’s climb. Or alp out by donating online.
