Local woman to hike for non-profit

A Centerville resident will be hiking for three days in New Hampshire this weekend to raise money for a Boston non-profit that provides residential services and an emergency shelter for those in need.

Holly Olp will be participating in Wilderness Heals, a hike taking place in the White Mountains, from July 20-22 with approximately 50 other women. Funds raised from the pledges she has solicited will benefit the Elizabeth Stone House, a Roxbury based organization that helps homeless and at risk survivors of domestic violence, mental illness and substance abuse achieve greater safety and stability.

An annual event, this is Olp’s first experience with Wilderness Heals, which is the Stone House’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Hikers are required to raise a minimum of $1,500 in order to participate. Part of the program requirements call for attendees to complete a practice hike as well, which Olp did in June.

The hike should not be a problem, physically, for Olp, who works as a physical trainer and works out regularly.

Olp’s interest in the event piqued when she came across the Facebook page Girls Who Hike. “I was looking for a chance to meet other women who share my same interests and for a physical challenge,” she said. “I especially liked that it supported women who could use the help so it sounded like an all-around good idea.”

If you are interested in making a donation to help the Elizabeth Stone House, you can visit wildernessheals.elizabethstone.org/hollyolp.