Some of my dearest childhood memories are from hiking forts in the Sahyadri mountains with my parents, uncle, sister, and brother. Coming from a family that loves the outdoors, hiking was always more than exercise—it was how we spent time together and stayed close to nature.
Then life happened. I moved to the United States, and hiking slowly became a long-lost hobby.
Shortly after moving to Seattle, I heard about Team Asha, a group of hiking enthusiasts who train together to climb mountains while raising funds to educate children from underserved communities in India. Naturally, my ears perked up!
The cause made the opportunity even more meaningful. I grew up with the belief that we should always find ways to give back to our communities. My family has long supported initiatives focused on education, social development, and opportunities for children and young people. Team Asha gave me the chance to reconnect with something I love while supporting a cause that feels deeply personal.
My journey to Mount Baker
What began as a way to rebuild my fitness routine soon became the highlight of almost every Saturday.
Over five months, I trained through hikes including Poo Poo Point, West Tiger, Mount Si, Cable Line, Mount Bandera, Mount Teneriffe, Mailbox Peak, and finally, Mount St. Helens.
Then came the Fourth of July weekend—our Mount Baker climb.
Our group of three hiked to base camp, set up our tents, and began the summit attempt that same night. I reached approximately 8,000 feet, but I was unable to maintain the pace required to continue safely and had to turn back.
I was heartbroken that I could not reach the summit after months of preparation. But the experience taught me that success is not defined by one final destination. I learned about resilience, preparation, respecting my limits, and continuing even when the outcome is different from what I imagined.
Between a demanding work-travel schedule, moving homes, and family commitments, simply staying committed to this journey was an achievement I am proud of. I also met an incredible community of passionate hikers and created memories that I will carry for years.
And my Mount Baker journey is not over—I plan to continue hiking through the fall and return next year stronger and better prepared!
What am I fundraising for?
The funds I raise will support Vikasana, a project in India serving children of migrant daily-wage laborers. Many of these children begin working alongside their parents at a young age to help their families survive.
Vikasana helps children move away from child labor, continue their education, and build a future filled with greater opportunity and aspiration. Each year, approximately 25 children are rehabilitated into formal schools.
Asha for Education is run largely by volunteers and operates with minimal overhead, allowing the majority of every contribution to directly support education projects in India.
Every contribution matters
Whether it is $1, $10, $100, or any other amount, your support can create a meaningful impact.
Please click the “Donate Now” button below my picture and support my journey.
When donating, please include the following in your comment:
“Team Asha 2026 Shriya Kulkarni”
If your employer matches charitable donations, please submit your contribution for a match—you may be able to double your impact. You can also search for Asha for Education, Seattle Chapter through your company’s giving platform, such as Benevity or Give. Please save a screenshot of the matching submission and send it to me so it can count toward my fundraising commitment.
Every contribution, no matter the amount, can help a child remain in school and move toward a more hopeful future.
Thank you for putting a pep in my step, supporting this cause, and becoming part of my journey!! 🥾🏔️