Stefan Danis compares his experience in China’s Gobi Desert to looking for a marketing job during tough economic times.

“It’s very lonely, you don’t see much, and it’s easy to stop,” said the Mandrake and NexCareer CEO.

Danis participated in the Gobi March last month, a six-day race, which Time Magazine ranks as the second toughest endurance competition in the world, in an effort to raise $25,000 for the National Advertising Benevolent Society.

Danis, who was the first Canadian to cross the finish line, finishing 14th overall, exceeded his goal by more than $13,000, and upon his return decided to increase his fundraising target by another $12,000 to make it an even $50,000. He hopes to hit the target by September.

Danis will take an “Obama-style” approach; asking for a small pledge from as many people as possible, he said.

NABS provides assistance to marketing, advertising and media professionals who need help due to illness, injury, unemployment or financial hardship.

Danis said this has been NABS most demanding year ever, with requests for its services up 160%.

Rather than just ask for donations, Danis offered career management and outplacement services to potential donors.

For every $100 contribution, the donor received a gift voucher for NexCareer services, which can be transferred to family or friends who have been laid off and are unable to access outplacement coverage.

“The whole intent is to play a role in putting people in our industry back to work in one form or another by training them,” said Danis.

Danis blogged about his journey as he battled the rough terrain and sweltering heat during the race, to chronicle the journey for himself, and out of respect for those who had donated, he said.

His final entry, entitled “Who runs in the desert and why,” explored the reason behind his journey, and the benefits of participating.

Asked if he would participate in next year’s race, Danis said he would help prepare a “friends of NABS” team, and “possibly” run as well.

Anyone interested in making a contribution can visit Gobi4nabs.com.