Kristofzski Hikes Pacific Crest Trail to Support Elks Charities
Washington Elks leader walks 2,650 miles to benefit children, veterans, and communities.
John Kristofzski at the southern terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail on March 13. Credit: John Kristofzski.
PACIFIC CREST TRAIL — John Kristofzski started a 2,650-mile hike along the Pacific Crest Trail on March 13. The Past Exalted Ruler of Washington State Tri-Cities Elks Lodge #2755 began the northbound trek from the U.S.-Mexico border in Campo, California. He plans to finish at the Canadian border while raising awareness of the Elks organization and funds for its charitable programs. The effort focuses on major projects in California, Oregon, and Washington, as well as on Elks National Foundation initiatives nationwide.
Kristofzski has hiked 148.1 miles as of March 25. The journey supports programs for children with disabilities, scholarship recipients, veterans, and community services. The California stretch funds therapy, camps, and education for children with disabilities. Oregon covers vision screening and services for children statewide. Washington provides in-home specialized therapies for children at no cost. The Elks National Foundation advances scholarships, veterans’ services, and community grants nationwide.
Donors contribute through several options. Supporters may make flat, one-time donations to a chosen state project or to the national foundation. Many select per-mile pledges at rates such as ten cents or fifty cents per mile and often set a cap on total miles. People can also sponsor a specific mile or day with a flat donation amount that activates when Kristofzski reaches the milestone. All funds go directly to the selected programs with no deductions.
Fundraising has so far raised $3,608.94 in pledges. The accrued amount based on miles completed stands at $1,428.95. Settled donations total $950.
Kristofzski on March 17, with 58 miles completed. Credit: John Kristofzski.
The Pacific Crest Trail passes through several communities in Northern California, including Sierra County, later in the route. The trail reaches the Soda Springs area near mile 1,154. It crosses Highway 49 near Sierra City at approximately mile 1,196. The route continues through the Belden area near mile 1,288 and past Chester around mile 1,332.
“I’m not just hiking for myself. I’m hiking for every child helped by our Major Projects, every veteran supported by our programs, and every community touched by Elks generosity,” says Kristofzski.
Supporters can follow the journey in real time. The live trail tracker at elkjourney.org/tracker shows current position, elevation, and journal updates. The website also provides options to make pledges and donations.