Help one another in righteousness and piety.
Quran 5:2
The challenge begins quietly, with one woman being asked. Her community notices her, and a charity invites her. She then asks her family to join her.
This part is about that first yes, and about the fundraising that follows.
At a glance
| Topic | In brief |
|---|---|
| When | Weeks or months before the day |
| Where | In the community, at home, the mosque, the school or the community centre |
| The heart of it | One woman is asked, and she asks her family |
The nomination
A charity works with the community to find the right woman. Someone from the charity then speaks to her in person. They tell her honestly what the challenge involves: mud, cold water, effort and an audience.
She may say no. She should have time to think, and nobody should press her.
The invitation
If she says yes, her next task is to invite her son, her daughter-in-law and her daughter-in-law’s mother. She is asking them to do something hard, so she needs to explain it kindly.
The two mothers may know each other well, or hardly at all. Encourage them to meet before the day. They will be on the course together for hours.
Every person must say yes freely. Offer a short, friendly call with the organisers to anyone who has questions.
Saying yes together
Once everyone agrees, gather the family to talk. Share any worries, and tell the organisers about any health needs. Agree who will care for young children on the day.
The fundraising begins
The mother is a trusted face in her community, so people will want to help. She can say openly that the challenge is outside her comfort zone and far from her usual way of life.
She can use the template letter from Choosing the charity and cause. The charity should set up the giving page and answer donors’ questions. The family decides how much to share online.
Reflection
These questions can open a family conversation.
- What made you say yes, and what made you hesitate?
- How does it feel to be asked to step outside your comfort zone, in front of people who know you?
- What do you hope your family will understand afterwards?
Once everyone has said yes and the first sponsors have signed up, the day draws near. It begins with a minibus.