Zerf Challenge2020

 Hope and Piece of Mind to   Mothers and 20 million Children with HIV and AIDS in Africa.   (One Dollar per Child )

Zerf-productions, a non -profit charitable organization, based in Montreal have been responding to the needs of communities in the fight against poverty and HIV/AIDS in Canada and in Africa. For the past 20 years. Mothers and children living with and being affected by HIV and AIDS have been ignored by the world. Mothers and Children should be free from discrimination and have access to education, treatment, care, and support.  Mothers and children, infected and affected by HIV and AIDS, should have access to the knowledge and support to prevent further HIV infection in their communities.  Mothers and children, living with and being affected by HIV and AIIDS have a right to live like every body else in the world.  Zerf Challenge 2020 team will raise awareness  for the 20 million  Children infected and affected by HIV and AIDS in Africa.  ONE DOLLAR PER CHILD, can make a difference.

HIV is among the five leading causes of death in the world. Since its identification 20 years ago, the pandemic has affected about 46 million people worldwide. Africa. Particularly the sub-Sahara region, has been the hardest hit, with 36 million people, including 20 million children. About 5.6 million mothers and children are living with HIV and Aids in South Africa.  Every day, (one thousand 1000) people die of Aids related disease. The vast majority of South Africans living with HIV, does not know they have acquired the virus.

 Zerf Challenge2020 team, made a commitment to increase our humanitarian contribution to raise awareness and funds, by climbing Kilimanjaro for the victims in the Cameroon, Congo, Chad, and Kenya. Tanzania, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.  If you care, add your name to Zerf Challenge 2020 team and help the mothers and children in Africa.

Zerf Challenge2020  Number (2)

Zerf productions is managed and supported by volunteers, so as to ensure 100% of donations and sponsorship are used for the intended purpose. We ask for your support

participants will challenge Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania from September 9 -24, 2005. Corporate and individual sponsorship. The second climb is presently managed by: Dr. Wilhelmina Fredericks, (Director General for Zerf productions and Sociologist, Eric van Dal, Team Manager and Senior Consultant, Martha Cox, (Medical Writer) Howard Kay. Communications Director and professional photographer.  You can be part of our team with your expertise and services.   We also accept corporate, cultural, community and individual sponsorships.

 

Zerf Challenge 2020  Kilimanjaro climb 

Motivated by  the success of the 2004 Kilimanjaro climb, Zerf Productions is now planning the second climb.   The team  will leave Montreal on September 9 and return on September 24 2005.

Kilimanjaro is by far the most accessible of the world’s summits. There are no technical sections on the climb. If you are comfortable with hiking 6 to 8 hours per day over several days, you have what you need to attempt the climb. Although not technically difficult, you should not underestimate the mountain environment. Physical training and mental preparation are a large step towards your success.

Summit day is a very rewarding experience, but it is also very demanding. On summit day you will be on the move for almost 18 hours after only a few hours of sleep. This day will demand 150% effort.  Altitude, fatigue, and weather may prevent you from reaching your goal, but even if you do not summit, you will have experienced what few people will ever get to see. If you do get to touch the sky over Africa, you will cherish the moment for a lifetime.

Safari

After the climb, it will be possible to take in a 3 day safari through some of the wildlife reserves located near Arusha. These include Tarangiri, Ngorongoro crater, and Lake Manyara reserves. These reserves offer some of the best wildlife viewing in Tanzania as well as spectacular scenery.

This will be a camping safari and will give you a sense of what early explorers lived sleeping under the African skies.

What you get by climbing with Zerf.

Climbing with the Zerf team has certain benefits over other commercial packages. First, because we are climbing for a humanitarian cause, all your expenses are tax deductible. Zerf Productions will issue you a tax receipt for the full amount of your trip costs.

Secondly, Zerf has negotiated rates for air fare and outfitters that are much lower than what you could find individually. Zerf’s partners are committed to the same cause we are and make sure the money we raise goes as far as we can stretch it. Zerf deals directly with the local businesses, assuring the best rates and that the money will help the local economy.

Thirdly, many suppliers and corporations donate equipment and supplies to the expedition, or provide climbers with special discounts. The equipment is yours to keep.

Lastly, the YMCA provides free membership and trainers for the climbers. This is a change to train for the climb (and whatever else you want to get fit for) at no cost.

What is expected of you as a climber?

As part of the Zerf team, each climber is expected to contribute to the cause of HIV awareness and fundraising activities. Therefore, each member is expected to raise a minimum of $3000 in the year before the climb. This can be done individually, through sponsors, or through some of the fundraising events organized by Zerf and the members. Zerf will also provide a fund raising kit to help you reach your goal.

Each climber is expected to pay their own air fare but will receive a large discount on standard fares. Typically, the air fair will cost CDN$1000-$1200.  Climbers are also expected to pay for Visas, extra activities, and out-of-pocket expenses while in Africa. This is of course part of the tax deductible expenses.

Each climber is encouraged to help in the various organization and logistics tasks leading up to the climb. Everyone has a skill they can contribute.

Travel In Africa

Travel in Tanzania is relatively safe compared to neighbouring countries. Never travel alone, even if you are just going for a walk. In groups, feel free to explore the local roads and markets and enjoy the culture.

There are several health hazards in Africa so you should visit your local traveller's clinic a few months before you leave. You will likely need vaccines for Yellow Fever, Polio, Typhoid, and Cholera if you don’t already have them. It is also strongly recommended to get a Hepatitis A&B vaccine, and anti-malaria medication. Do not trust the water unless it is bottled or has been filtered or boiled.

Gear List

Below is a suggested list of equipment you will need for the trip. Some items in brackets are optional but can add a little comfort. Consider how much equipment you will have to purchase, as it can add a substantial cost to the trip. Some of this equipment may be available from sponsors or through discount agreements.

It is almost impossible to get equipment in Africa (and way overpriced if it is available). So make sure you have what you need before you leave.

Individual Equipment

Clothing:

Qty	ITEM
3	Socks, smart wool
1	Underwear, long expedition weight
3	Pair polypro/silk liner socks
2	Synthetic tee shirts.
1	Bathing suite.
1	Set clean clothes (for travel & restaurant)
1	Gaiters
4	Underwear (polypropylene or synthetic)
1	(Down jacket)
1	Bandanna, light colored.
1	Jacket, fleece
1	Gore-Tex shell jacket.
1	Gore-Tex mitten shell.
1	N2S gloves or other thin glove.
1	Climbing pants.
1	Sandals
1	Fleece mittens.
1	Wool gloves.
1	Balaclava.
1	Pair hiking boots.
1	Wide brimmed sun hat or cap with neck flaps.
1	pair light hiking shoes
1	Set rain gear (top and pants). **Rain ponchos are not recommended.
1	light wool hat
2	Pair quick dry pants (with zipper legs w/drawstrings.)
2	quick dry shirt

Pack Gear:

Qty	ITEM
1	Pack, Day (30 L)
1	Pack. (60-90 L) or duffle bag to get you gears there.
1	Sleeping bag rated to -20 Celsius.
1	(overbag if your bag is not -20)
1	(Sleeping Bag liner if your bag is not -20)
2	Sets tie down straps.
1	Pack rain cover
2	(2 side packs.)
1	Waterproof compression sack for clothing.
2	Bungee cords.
1	Trekking poles.

Misc.:

Qty	ITEM
1	Maps.
1	Tube sun screen. (SPF 30 or better)
1	Swiss army knife.
1	Camera, film, memory cards, batteries.
2	Lexan water bottles.
1	Camelback or platypus hydration system.
1	Water bottle parka
1	Head lamp & spare batteries.
1	Mosquito netting
6	Mix of tie-wraps for repairs.
1	Pair dark sun glasses (with nose guard & side covers.)
1	Water bottle holder and snack pouch
	Climbing insurance
	Travelers checks
	Credit card
	Permits
	Visas
	Passports
	medical certificates

Toiletries:

Qty	ITEM
1	Tooth brush. W/ cover or case
1	Razor. w/ extra blades
1	Tooth paste.
1	Alarm clock.
1	Can insect repellent spray.
2	Set of ear plugs
2	Roll toilet paper.
1	bottle camp soap
1	Pee Bottle
1	(“For Her”)
1	Towel.
1	face cloth
1	Mirror

Medical:

Qty	ITEM
	MSc medication: allergies, etc.
	Lip balm.
	Antacid tablets
	Imodium or other anti-Ihara
	Capri (broad spectrum antibiotic)
	Extra strength Tylenol
	Multi vitamine (B,C,E, Iron, Zinc)
	Malaria Pills
	Anti-nausea medication
	Antibiotic cream (example: polysporin)
	Purell, isopropyl or other antiseptic gel
	ginko biloba
	Diamox (acetazolamide)

Food:

Although food will be provided everywhere as part of the package, you may want to bring some snacks, especially for the mountain. Bring high energy food such as cashew nuts, Power bars, M&Ms, jerkey, and so on. Keep them in your pack for easy access when you need a little energy.

Common Equipment

Common equipment should be shared by the team. Only one or two of these items are necessary for everyone.

Common Misc.:

Qty	ITEM	Responsible
1	Roll of cord for cloth lines and emergency repairs.
1	Spare set boot laces.
1	Large & small tie-wraps.
1	Spare backpack belt buckle.
1	spare clip type backpack fastener
1	roll duct tape
1	sewing kit
1	Water filter
1	Group medical kit
1	(small battery radio)

 Zerf Challenge2020 Team, 2004

Wilhelmina Fredericks, Eric Vandal, Normand Brown, Patrick Scott, Robert Mio, Gregory Dijkman, Wanjira Njenga, Leonard Mbaididje,   Front Row:: Martha Cox, Sylvia Gervais, Jacklyn  Quinlan, Sylvia Dufresne ,Elizabeth  Jennaway Eaman                                

 Partners:  Health Partners International of Canada, Royal Commonwealth Society, McGill University, St. Ansgars Luther Church, St. Andrew's United Church Hope Town (Gaspe) River's Edge Community Church, Wesley United Church. The South African Church Community , Jan Beckman,   Christopher Blais, Betty Maistre  and David Freeman  (Montreal) Carol Bernard .Reverend  Martha Nell Thomson, Dr.  Rev. Jan Dijkman, Reverend Samuel King  -Kuba , John Fetherstonhaugh, Out of NDG Choir, (Vivienne  Dean)  Dr. Maurice McGregore, Madam  Diz Dichmont  (New Foundland) .

Sponsors: Core Business Center, Blue Blanca Rouge, Uniprix, and Ynotsailing, Monkland Hardware and. YMCA. Merrill of Canada, Proudly Canadian, Van Horne Pizza. And others. For more info please see http://www.kilimanjaro2020.com

Wilhelmina Fredericks ( Zerf Productions Director General) Board of Directors: Dr. Rev. Jan Dijkman (president) George Hyde (Vice president) Jan Beckman (Auditor) Merritt Adams  (Secretary) Milton Thomson and Henry Roth (Treasurers) Members: Alicia Lee Hing Else Sullivan, Mary Thomas, Griff Brewer, Robert Bergner, Mark Simon, Dr. Leonard Mbaididje, Dr. Hughes Loemba, Dr Alex Mbongo, Dr. Klaus Haller, Nadia Fredericks.