This is a page dedicated to our wonderful event participants. The stories of different event participants each month will inspire you to get involved and give you a flavour for the events that we have at Springboard for Children so far.
If you have any queries in relation to anything on this page please e-mail fundraising@springboard.org.uk.
Carol says:
I have now retired from a varied and interesting business life and it’s just great fun being with my immediate family and friends but I am always ready to accept a challenge – it makes life more interesting!
We asked:
How did you hear about us?
Via the internet – there are thousands of charities – THAT says a lot about people all over the world.
What made you choose Springboard for Children?
The children in our inner cities have a tough time and they need as much help as we can give
Carol
The children in our inner cities have a tough time and they need as much help as we can give. Sadly, it is not confined to the inner cities, and I personally think we all need to try helping turn things around for the better before the next generation become teenagers.
What inspired you do a Tandem Skydive?
I have always had a problem with heights so It was the most challenging thing I could do. I have not been in an aircraft since 1989, and certainly not a small one without a door! The only amazing thing I have done fairly recently is climb some scaffolding because a young man, then aged 12 said, “come on Carol, it’s easy” – I eventually tried and looked beyond my personal fear. Brandon Winstone made me realise that our younger people have much to offer – so, thank you Brandon, you have inadvertently made a difference to the lives of many children younger than you.
How did you raise your funds?
Firstly, I approached family and, friends with “Guess what I am going to do on the 12th July? Usually I was asked, “Going on holiday?”, “Actually I’m jumping out of a plan at 15,000 feet” Silence. Jaws dropped and they were only too pleased to be sponsoring me and not joining in! The local food hall allowed me to book a space to set up an information table and collection point free of charge. I made new cushions for our dentist’s reception area and was given a generous contribution towards the fund. My milkman took a sponsor form to the depot and all the milkmen chipped in. I spoke to shop keepers, staff at my bank and just about everyone I could think, of telling them how important it is to help the children. They all agreed it is a key issue, so sponsorship grew quite rapidly to the tune of £900 within six weeks
Firstly, I approached family and, friends with "Guess what I am going to do on the 12 July?"
Carol
Which company organised your Skydive?
Skydive UK Ltd at Dunkerswell Airfield , near Honiton. I could quite easily take up the sport now I know what to expect, I am in awe of their skills, timing and professionalism.
Pre-flight Instructions?
Very concise. Not sure I did everything right but my instructor, Andy, was a gem and I didn’t have to do anything except follow instructions and it was easy to trust implicitly.
What was the worst part?
Waiting for the right weather conditions – it was quite cloudy that day.
What was the best part?
The sensation of flying, the sudden rush of air, feeling totally free in a clear blue sky and then the canopy opened and we were floating down to earth with sufficient time for Andy to point out a few landmarks.
How did you feel?
Fantastic! I wanted to go back and do it all again.
Do you have a message for anyone wishing to do a challenge event?
Yes – just do it. This experience has taught me a lot about myself.
Do you have a message for the children we support?
Yes, definitely. Learning can be fun – so enjoy every moment. You will continue to learn all your life, but your primary years are the most important. Most of all follow your heart and aim to be the best at whatever interests you.
I also wish to thank my family for being there for me and all my sponsors for their encouragement and generosity. Watch this space – I’ll be back.