A Fairfield teen is heading to the northwest hills of Connecticut this weekend for a monumental task.

He's hoping to hike 52 miles in 24 hours to make other people's lives better.

"I've always wanted to do a hike with my dad," said Fairfield Warde High School senior Ryan McWhinnie.

The 18-year-old is getting ready to hike the 52-mile Connecticut portion of the Appalachian Trail with his dad in one day.

"I think after the experience both of us can look back and think about the challenging moments and the fun we had and I'm looking forward to that," said McWhinnie.

McWhinnie and his dad will hit the trail in the wee hours of Saturday morning, starting in the dark and ending in the dark.

McWhinnie is raising money for First Serve Bridgeport. It's an organization that enriches the lives of less fortunate kids in Bridgeport through tennis.

He is also teaching tennis to kids through the ACEing Autism program in North Haven.

"I'm glad that I can help people in need," said McWhinnie.

McWhinnie's goal is to raise $5,000 for the organizations. He's almost there.

"I hope that other people see this, and it makes them want to help out people as well because people need help and anyway I can give help, I'm glad," said McWhinnie.

Donations go toward much-needed resources for both programs.

If you'd like to donate or find out more, click here.