September 11, 2001

“This is the date of inception for Hike to Help Refugees”  explains Margaret Hahn, our  founder and director.  Margaret is a teacher of classical yoga.  The cornerstone of the practice is ahimsa, Sanskrit for non-violence.  “It means to act for the welfare of all beings.” she explains.  “The Hike to Help Refugees provides an opportunity to help protect the world’s most vulnerable and innocent people through the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR).”

Every year we hike the length  of the Wabash Trace Nature Trail in southwest Iowa.  Along the way we are supported by individuals, churches, local media and the Southwest Iowa Nature Trail volunteer organization. 

We average 12.13 miles per day, every meal  is a picnic that trail cooks are turning into a culinary event!  We camp out at night sleeping to the music of owls, coyotes , crickets and the deep quiet of the Iowa countryside. 

Children have always been an important and entertaining part of the Hike.  Weather impacts hikers but as Mrs. Hahn explains: “Wild thunderstorms, heat, cold, even a tornado have not deterred us.”

Over the eight years of hosting the Hike, volunteers have raised over $100,000. for USA for UNHCR.

Hikes have also taken place in Des Moines, Iowa;  Menomonie, Wisconsin;  Calgary, Alberta;  and Edinburgh, Scotland. 2010 marks the third year for a Hike in Des Moines on Sunday, May 9 (jordan.mondragon@drake.edu) and the second year for a Hike in Toronto, Ontario on Saturday May 29 and 30 (gitakolanad@yahoo.ca).

In addition to sponsoring the  Hike, Tango and Recycle for Refugees, Hike volunteers have an active educational outreach program. With assistance from USA for UNHCR the Hike has hosted private and community seminars.  Marc Breslaw, executive director, USA for UNHCR, said of Hike to Help Refugees: “Your organization is exemplary for the entire nation.”

Former United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Ruud Lubbers, commended the organization for its work: “Thank you. Around the world, we are striving to provide refugees with protection, help and hope for the future.  Your generous contribution moves us closer to that goal.”