Australian-born actress Georgia Van Cuylenburg, known for her voice work on popular video games, swam 24,000 meters to raise money for her nonprofit organization, Arts Bridging the Gap. The swim took place Monday, December 5 at the Brentwood Country Club Pool in Los Angeles.
Not only did she push her body to its limits, swimming for 8-1/2 consecutive hours, Cuylenburg surpassed her fundraising goal of $24,000, raising more than $35,000. After completing the swim, the actress couldn’t speak well or lift herself out of the pool.
"Every time I wanted to give up, I would focus on one of our kids or one of our contributors – each lap a new cute face or new supporter, and by the end I was bursting with gratitude… and exhaustion," said Cuylenburg.
The money will help Arts Bridging the Gap in its mission to fund arts education and educational resources for underserved youth.
On reflection of the swim, Cuylenburg said she didn’t realize how hard it would be, but was glad the challenge was intense.
“… breaking through poverty isn’t easy,” she said, “But with love, support and a belief in yourself, you can do it, and all kids deserve it.”
Watch her Facebook Live finish here.
