In 2025, long-time partners and dedicated runners Vince Hamel and Nate Roundy took on one of Europe’s most challenging trail events, the TransAlpine Run’s ‘Run2’, a two-day ultramarathon crossing the Austrian Alps. Covering an astonishing 72 kilometres over steep alpine terrain, the pair pushed through heat, exhaustion, and punishing elevation. What carried them through the toughest stretches was their commitment to fundraising for GiveOut and their belief that running could be a way to show solidarity with LGBTQI communities around the world.
For Vince and Nate, choosing GiveOut was instinctive. ‘LGBTQI rights are hard won, and unfortunately increasingly under attack,’ they explained. ‘With recent cuts to USAID and other donors turning away from LGBTQI advocacy, GiveOut’s work to channel funding to activist-led organisations globally is more essential Vince & Nate than ever. By raising money, we felt more empowered than powerless, like we could help queer people, even in a small way.’
‘With recent cuts to USAID and other donors turning away from LGBTQI advocacy, GiveOut’s work to channel funding to activist-led organisations globally is more essential than ever. By raising money, we felt more empowered than powerless, like we could help queer people, even in a small way.
Nate and Vince
Their motivation stayed with them across every uphill climb. ‘Knowing that our efforts were supporting positive change for queer people inspired us to push through the moments when our legs and feet hurt,’ they said. ‘So many LGBTQI people around the world bravely live their lives despite challenges and violence. Supporting their bravery gave us the motivation we needed to keep going.’
The race became even more unforgettable when, somewhere on the mountain trails, Vince and Nate decided to get engaged, turning an already extraordinary challenge into a celebration of love, resilience, and community. By the time they crossed the finish line, they had raised more than £4,100 (including match funding and Gift Aid), with support from friends, family and Nate’s employer, Canvas8.
Vince and Nate’s fundraising journey highlights the creativity and commitment of supporters who choose to stand in solidarity with LGBTQI communities worldwide. Their efforts, and the joy and determination they brought to the challenge, continue to inspire.
Congratulations to Vince and Nate on both their achievement and their engagement, and thank you for helping to power LGBTQI activism around the world.
If you’re feeling inspired to take on your own fundraising challenge in support of LGBTQI rights globally, explore GiveOut’s Fundraising Toolkit – packed with ideas, tips, and resources to help you get started.