We were thrilled to hear from Ira recently, who just returned from a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Thanks to the Jan Oelofse Legacy Award, he and his partner Maggie traveled to Namibia — a journey that left a lasting impact. In Ira’s own words:

"Going to Africa was something I had always dreamed about, but I never thought I’d get the chance. Thanks to the Jan Oelofse Legacy Award, Maggie and I were given an all-expenses-paid trip to Namibia, and it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life.
From the moment we arrived, I was blown away! At Jan Oelofse Hunting Safaris, the lodge where we stayed was not only beautiful but also wheelchair accessible, which made me feel at home and comfortable in a completely new part of the world. Every day brought new adventures, and every meal was delicious.
What really made the trip magical, though, was everything outside the hunting itself. I was able to take hundreds of photos of African wildlife, and seeing animals like giraffes and zebras in the wild for the very first time was almost surreal. There were so many moments where I had to stop, take a breath, and remind myself that I was really there, in Africa.
It wasn’t just a trip—it was a dream come true, and an experience I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life."

We’re so proud of Ira and grateful to everyone who made this dream a reality. What an incredible way to honor adventure, access, and the spirit of exploration.