On February 1st, 2010, I checked my email and saw this: Congratulations! We are pleased to inform you that you have been selected as the Grand Prize Winner of the “Champion: What’s Your Everest?” contest, and recipient of the $10,000 prize for fulfillment of your goal. I'm ashamed to say the first word out of my mouth was one my mother probably wouldn't have approved.

$10,000... Who wins that?!? Who gets an email saying that someone is going to give them lots of money - and it's actually legit?? On Feb 1st, it was me.

The contest, sponsored by Champion, Hanesbrands/Expedition Champion, asked "What would you overcome if you had the means?" If nothing held you back, if fear were your only foe - what would you do? It took me a while to find a way to merge my passions - adventure, the outdoors, students, and earth science - but when I did it was perfect: Summit for Someone and Big City Mountaineers.

Summit for Someone arranges guided climbs in exchange for more money than you ever think you can raise. The money you raise goes to Big City Mountaineers, a group that takes at risk kids on backpacking trips - giving them the chance to discover themselves and find the power to take control of and change their lives. I grew up outside. My favorite childhood memories are of exploring the woods around my house, or seeing the National Parks out west. I was blessed as a child with opportunities that, in reality, are rare. BCM gives city children the opportunity I had - to play outside, to explore, to learn about teamwork, build character and catch a vision for their life. The Champion contest seemed to fit my goals: Overcome my fears, and provide opportunity for others.

Not having much money growing up, I'd often fantasize about what I'd do if I won the lottery. My parents always told me, "To whom much is given, much is required." I'd dream about what I could own, but I'd also dream about what I could give away. Who I could impact, what lives I could change if I had the chance. While clothes, gear, or a  computer are tempting, I know I've gotten this chance for a reason. I finally am able to live my dream - to give it all away. I get to give away $10,000.

In the grand scheme of things, it's not a whole lot of money, but it's the most I've ever had all at once. I've always been happiest when doing things for others - we were meant to take what we have and use it to bless others. So if you have money, talent, time, or strength - I challenge you to use it on others instead of yourself. Pass it on, and see what happens.

This week I'll have an outline of my plan for achieving my Everest, and I hope you will help keep me accountable and on track. I can't wait for this adventure!