Colossal Celebrates Ultimate Explorer Success, Raising $923,542 for National Park Foundation

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Colossal, a prominent fundraiser and Champions of Change finalist, proudly celebrates the success of its Ultimate Explorer competition, which raised an impressive $923,542 for the National Park Foundation and honored Greg Gedemer as the 2024 champion. Gedemer, a military veteran and former Coast Guardsman, has dedicated his post-service life to exploring the world. Now crowned as the first-ever Ultimate Explorer, he will be featured in Outside Magazine, embark on a grand national park expedition, and receive a $10,000 cash prize.

Originally from Wisconsin and currently residing in Alaska, Gedemer enjoys immersing himself in diverse cultures and capturing unforgettable moments through photography. His dream destinations include Denali, the secluded Dry Tortugas in Florida, and California’s Channel Islands, where he hopes to SCUBA dive among kelp forests. One of his most memorable journeys took him to Antarctica, where he shared the experience with descendants of Jacques Cousteau and Ernest Shackleton.

“Winning this competition is a dream come true,” said Gedemer. “Exploring and protecting the world’s natural wonders has been a big part of my life, and now I get to share my experiences with others while contributing to the preservation of America’s most special lands.”

Colossal is honored to support the National Park Foundation through this competition, contributing to its mission to protect over 85 million acres of land and water, preserve cultural heritage, educate youth, and inspire a love for nature. Since its founding in 1967, the Foundation has safeguarded some of America’s most cherished landscapes for future generations.

“Raising $923,542 for the National Park Foundation is just the beginning. We’re not only helping this incredible organization do what they do best—we’re giving explorers like Greg a chance to experience them in the most exhilarating way. It’s like handing them a map and saying, ‘Go ahead, make some memories—but leave the place looking like you never even set foot there,'” said Colossal CEO Mary Hagen.

This accomplishment would not have been possible without the invaluable support of Colossal’s partners, who enhanced both the adventure and the cause. Together, they have created a remarkable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

“Together with Winnebago, The Coca-Cola Company, and Nature Valley, we have inspired explorers to chase their wildest dreams while supporting the National Park Foundation’s vital work in preserving America’s landscapes. Thes partnerships are more than just exciting collaborations—it’s a shared commitment to protecting the great outdoors while encouraging explorers to immerse themselves in the beauty of our national parks,” added Hagen.

Winnebago: Established in 1958, Winnebago has long been a trusted leader in outdoor lifestyle solutions, embodying the spirit of exploration with its iconic RVs. Winnebago will equip Gedemer’s national park expedition with an adventure-ready RV.

The Coca-Cola Company: Founded in 1886, The Coca-Cola Company has grown into a global leader in beverages, committed to uplifting communities and the planet through initiatives in water conservation, packaging recycling, and sustainable sourcing.

Nature Valley: Since introducing the world’s first granola bar in 1973, Nature Valley has been devoted to promoting outdoor adventures. Over 50 years later, Nature Valley continues to offer snacks that fuel every outdoor journey.