Brackley, 17th August 2024—A group of nine dedicated camp staff members made a leap of faith this summer, skydiving from 13,000 feet at the Hinton Sky Dive Centre in Brackley. This adrenaline-pumping event was not just about the thrill; it was a charity fundraiser that generated over £3,500 for Helen & Douglas House, a children's hospice that provides vital care and support to families facing life-limiting conditions.
The participants, who all work for Ultimate Activity Camps, had been preparing for this event for months. From securing sponsorships to overcoming personal fears, each team member was committed to making a difference. Their collective effort paid off, as they soared through the sky, not only raising funds but also awareness for the essential services provided by Helen & Douglas House.
A Leap of Faith
The day began early with the camp staff members gathering at the Hinton Sky Dive Centre, known for its professional and experienced instructors. The nerves were certainly palpable as they suited up and received a final briefing on safety procedures.
Among the brave nine were camp instructors and head office team members, all united by a common cause. "We wanted to do something that would challenge us while giving back to the community. Skydiving seemed like the perfect way to push our limits and raise money for such a deserving charity."
Taking to the Skies
As the plane climbed to the jump altitude of 13,000 feet, the group shared moments of camaraderie, offering each other words of encouragement. One by one, they took the plunge, free-falling at speeds of up to 120 miles per hour before their parachutes deployed, bringing them safely back to the ground.
Supporting a Worthy Cause
Helen & Douglas House, based in Oxford, provides hospice care for children and young adults with life-limiting conditions, offering respite care, end-of-life care, and bereavement support. The charity relies heavily on donations to continue its compassionate work, making fundraisers like this skydiving event crucial to its mission.
"We are incredibly grateful to these amazing individuals for their support," said Alison, a spokesperson for Helen & Douglas House. "The funds they have raised will make a significant difference in the lives of the children and families we support. Their bravery and generosity are truly inspiring."
A Successful Fundraiser
The group initially set a fundraising target of £2,250, but thanks to the overwhelming support from friends, family, and camp attendees, they exceeded their goal by more than £1,000. Donations continued to pour in even after the event, as photos and videos of their skydiving adventure circulated on social media.
Looking Ahead
With the success of this skydiving event, Ultimate Activity Camps are already brainstorming their next charity challenge. "We're excited to see how we can continue to support Helen & Douglas House in the future."
The event at Hinton Sky Dive Centre was more than just a thrilling adventure; it was a testament to the power of community and the impact that a group of determined individuals can have when they come together for a common cause. For the nine camp staff members, the sky truly was the limit as they soared to new heights in support of Helen & Douglas House.
Thank you so much to our skydivers, organisers and donors who all played their part in this event. Roll on 2025!