Brackley, 17 August 2024—Nine dedicated camp staff members undertook a daring skydiving challenge, jumping from 13,000 feet at the Hinton Sky Dive Centre in Brackley. This exhilarating event was more than an adrenaline rush; it served as a fundraiser, collecting over £3,500 for Helen & Douglas House, a children’s hospice that provides crucial care and support for families dealing with life-limiting conditions.
The participants, who all work for Ultimate Activity Camps, prepared for this challenge for several months, securing sponsorships and confronting personal fears. Their dedication paid off as they soared through the sky, raising both funds and awareness for the vital services offered by Helen & Douglas House.
The day began early with the camp staff gathering at the Hinton Sky Dive Centre, known for its professional and experienced instructors. The nerves were certainly there as they suited up and received a final briefing on safety procedures. One staff member said, “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 13,000 feet, the group shared supportive moments before each member took their turn. One by one, they leaped into the open sky, experiencing a free-fall of up to 120 miles per hour before their parachutes deployed, ensuring a safe landing.
Supporting a Vital 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!