Ryan Trahan raises $5.5M in viral 50 States in 50 Days challenge

Ryan Trahan raises $5.5M for St. Jude’s Hospital during 50 States in 50 Days challenge, surpassing his $1M goal.
Pop Culture & Art | July 19, 2025

YouTube sensation Ryan Trahan has raised over $5.5 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as part of his ambitious “50 States in 50 Days” challenge.

The challenge, which began on June 10, 2025, involves Trahan and his wife Haley traveling to all 50 U.S. states, staying in a unique Airbnb in each one, and documenting their journey online to raise money for the children's hospital.

Originally setting a $1 million fundraising goal, Trahan quickly surpassed expectations, reaching over $5.5 million just 35 days into the journey. The couple has visited 36 states so far, recently stopping in Indiana as they make their way through the Midwest, with the Pacific Northwest still ahead.

Throughout the challenge, Trahan has stayed in eye-catching accommodations like a nut-shaped house, a nuclear missile bunker, a lighthouse, and even a castle. The campaign has also included interactive milestones such as the “Wheel of Doom,” which is spun whenever a $50,000 donation is made, assigning the couple playful punishments.

Popular creators like MrBeast, Mark Rober, and Doctor Mike have joined the effort, further boosting visibility and donations. Now aiming for a $6 million target, Ryan Trahan’s fundraiser has become one of YouTube’s most inspiring and successful charity campaigns in 2025.

 

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