Jodie Coall

My Activity Tracking

159
kms

My target 20 kms

I am raising money to support the ongoing work of Hands Across the Water because every child deserves to live a life of choice!

Hands Across the Water supports 350+ children living in 7 homes and projects across Thailand. The charity started out addressing the needs of kids who didn't have homes or access to food, clothing and medicine. As the kids have grown and matured, the focus has shifted to education and future employment opportunities. Today, access to new and exciting opportunities for the kids is just as important as a loving home and a belly full of healthy food.

Your donation will help provide a high standard of care, a chance at a better education and a future that they never envisioned.

My Achievements

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Reached 50% of Fundraising Goal

Reached 100% of Fundraising Goal

My Updates

Riding, Running, and Raising Hope: Why I’m Taking on the 20KM Challenge for Hands Across the Water (and I don't even run)

Thursday 21st Nov

Some moments in history leave a lasting mark on our hearts, shaping the way we see the world and the people in it. For me, one of those moments is the Boxing Day Tsunami of 2004—a tragedy that claimed over 230,000 lives across 14 countries. Out of that devastation, however, came a story of resilience, hope, and unwavering support.

That’s the story of Hands Across the Water, a charity founded by Peter Baines, OAM, who stepped up to make a difference after witnessing the heartbreaking impact of the tsunami firsthand. Hands Across the Water began by helping children in Thailand who had lost their families and homes in the disaster. Over the last two decades, it has grown to support over 350 children across seven homes and projects, providing not just food and shelter but education, vocational training, and the opportunity for a brighter future.

This December marks the 20th anniversary of the tsunami, and Peter is undertaking an extraordinary feat to honour this milestone and the lives it has impacted. He’s running an eye-watering 1,400km—60km a day—over the course of 26 days this December 2024 with the goal of raising $1 million for Hands Across the Water. As of today, he’s at around $347,000, and I’m joining in, in my own way, to help push that number higher.


From Two Wheels to Two Feet: My Why

Earlier this year, I joined my third Hands’ bike rides, cycling through the beautiful landscapes of Thailand. 500 km over 5 days. That experience wasn’t just physically and mentally challenging; it was emotionally moving. I met children who had been given a second chance at life because of the support from Hands. Kids who now dream of becoming doctors, entrepreneurs, and educators—all thanks to the generosity of people like you. This particular ride with Business Blueprint has been going for 10 years and together with your support, we have raised over a quarter of a million dollars. 

After the ride, I knew I wanted to do more. And when I heard about Peter’s 1,400km run, it struck a chord with me. While I’m not running the equivalent of 60km a day (that’s superhero stuff!), 

I’ve committed to completing a 20km run challenge in December. It’s my way of honouring not only Pete’s incredible dedication but also the resilience of the children who inspire this cause. I have personally met many of these kids over the years of being involved with Hands and I can tell you first hand, pun intended :) every cent goes to the kids and man does every cent make a difference!

I’ve set a personal fundraising goal of $1,000, and while it might seem small compared to the $1 million target, every dollar counts. Here’s how your donation can make a tangible impact:

  • $100 provides school supplies for children to thrive in their education.
  • $500 covers a child’s annual medical expenses.
  • $1,500 offers vocational training for young adults stepping into the workforce.
  • $5,000 funds a university scholarship, opening doors to endless possibilities.

Why It Matters

Hands Across the Water doesn’t just provide food and shelter; it gives these kids something much more powerful—a sense of belonging and the opportunity to create their own future. Many of the children Hands supports come from backgrounds of unimaginable hardship. Some were orphaned by the tsunami; others face poverty or lack access to basic necessities.

But thanks to Hands, they’re thriving. They’re not just surviving; they’re dreaming, learning, and achieving. This isn’t just charity—it’s about creating a sustainable future where these children can stand tall and independent.


Join Me in Making a Difference

Pete’s journey and the 20th anniversary of the tsunami remind us of how much can be achieved when we come together. Whether it’s running, riding, or simply spreading the word, there are so many ways we can help Hands Across the Water continue its incredible work.

By donating to my 20km run challenge, you’re not just supporting me—you’re empowering children to break cycles of poverty, access education, and step confidently into a future full of possibility.

Will you help me reach my $1,000 goal?

Every step I take, every dollar you give, and every milestone we hit together will be a tribute to the resilience of these kids and the legacy of hope that Hands Across the Water has built over the last two decades.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Together, we can make sure these children have not just what they need to survive but everything they need to thrive.

Will You Donate Now? 

Let’s do this!

One man one million dollars 14,000 km of running…

Tuesday 19th Nov

Peter Baines OAM, will embark on a 1400km run

Tuesday 19th Nov

Join us in raising $1million to support our kids futures 

Starting on the 1st of December 2024, the Founder of Australian charity Hands Across the Water, Peter Baines OAM, will embark on a 1400km run. The “Run to Remember” will leave from the town of Yasothon in the North East of Thailand and continue for the following 26 days to the town of Takua Pa in the South.  Peter will be joined on this epic run by his good mate and long time supporter of Hands, Greg Wallace.  In 2018, Greg ran from Bangkok to Khao Lak in support of Hands. 

Peter and Greg will be running a daily average of 60kms over the 26 days to reach their destination of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami memorial. The timing of their arrival, the 26th of December 2024, will coincide with the 20 year anniversary of the event that claimed and changed so many lives.

To the best of our knowledge we believe that Peter and Greg will be the first to run the 1400kms from Baan Home Hug the home supported by Hands in Yasothon, to Baan Tharn Namchai the home hands built in Takua Pa. It is with certainty that no Australian has ever run this route. The run will be a one-off event timed to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the tsunami. Peter has elected to undertake this ambitious goal to celebrate his own 20 year commitment to the people of Thailand that started with his deployment as a forensic specialist in the days after the tsunami to lead both the Australian and International teams in the identification of the victims who died.

2024 hands bike ride

Tuesday 19th Nov

Thank you to my Sponsors

$34.81

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