Rotaractor Ben Brown and Australian Olympic gold medalist Susie O’Neill at last year’s Splash for Cash.

Four years ago, I took part in my first Splash for Cash, swimming 27 laps to raise money for the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children, in support of children with vision or hearing loss in Australia.

I have a passion for youth and disability, and this Rotaract-lead project has helped me channel that passion. Every year since the first, I have aimed at stretching myself by bettering my mark, lining up sponsors in support of my participation in the swimathon, and extending the number of laps. This year, I am aiming to go more than 100 laps and raise US$2,000.

Rotaract has inspired me to lead and listen with compassion, act with purpose and to apply my role in a Rotaract Club with dedication and distinction. The opportunity to engage in fundraising and humanitarian events, projects and network with Rotaractors internationally is unprecedented.

This week, as Rotary marks Rotaract Week, I have already lined up pledges amounting to an incredible $1,970, surpassing last year. I’m hoping that by pushing my own personal limits I’ll encourage people to dig deep. The generosity of just one person really can help children living with the challenge of a sensory impairment.

To support Ben Brown visit his fundraising page at Splash for Cash.