Abseil Team Conquers Fears and Exceeds Fundraising Target, Raising Vital Funds to Support the Work of the Isle of Wight Youth Trust!
On Saturday, 27th May 2023, 11 brave individuals abseiled down the iconic Spinnaker Tower to raise vital funds for the Isle of Wight Youth Trust. The team, comprised of Youth Trust staff, trustees, supporters, and five members of the Youth Trust Taskforce, including the youngest participant aged just 14, embarked on this thrilling challenge to support the organization’s important work.
Amidst a buzzing atmosphere at Gunwharf Quays, the team, accompanied by their families, friends, and colleagues, travelled over to conquer the Spinnaker Tower abseil. The weather was perfect, setting the stage for an incredible display of courage and determination.
Molly, aged 15, a member of the Youth Trust Taskforce commented: “It was an amazing experience, and I would 100% do it again! Although my arms were a little sore the next day!”
Reflecting on the event, Jo Dare, CEO of the Youth Trust, expressed her awe at the participants’ accomplishments, stating, “On Saturday afternoon, I witnessed an incredible group of individuals conquer the Spinnaker Tower abseil! Their willingness to step out of their comfort zones, conquer their fears, and embrace the challenge was truly inspiring. We are incredibly grateful to each and every one of them. These abseilers have not only raised vital funds but also symbolize the resilience and strength that the Youth Trust strives to instil in the young people we support.”
Through their collective efforts and the generous support of their communities, the team has surpassed expectations by raising over £4400, with sponsorship still coming in. This outstanding achievement showcases the remarkable power of individuals united in a common cause.
Sophia Preston, Youth Trust Service Team Lead, who took part in the abseil explains the impact the challenge has had on her both personally and professionally: “There were many times on Saturday that I questioned what I had signed myself up for! Overcoming my fear of heights was a personal triumph that has profoundly impacted both my personal and professional life. Witnessing the resilience of others, especially the young people who took part in the challenge taught me invaluable lessons about diversity, strength, and the power of conquering anxieties.”
The funds raised will directly support the Isle of Wight Youth Trust in its crucial mission to provide mental health and wellbeing support to young Islanders aged 5-25. The demand for support from the Youth Trust is currently unprecedented, with over 650 children and young people reaching out for assistance. This number accounts for 75% of the total referrals received in the entirety of 2022, highlighting the pressing need for their services.
The public still has the opportunity to show their support for the abseil team by making a donation to the Isle of Wight Youth Trust. Every contribution, no matter the size, will have a significant impact on the lives of young people, providing them with the vital support they need to navigate their mental health challenges successfully.
Malcolm Marshall, Chair of Trustees at the Isle of Wight Youth Trust, conveyed his deep gratitude and admiration for the courageous abseilers, stating, “On behalf of the board of trustees, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each participant, as well as their generous supporters and sponsors. The success of this event reinforces the incredible community spirit that exists on the Isle of Wight. We are fortunate to have such passionate and dedicated individuals who are willing to go above and beyond to invest in the future of our youth. Together, we will continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people, empowering them to look to the future with hope.”
The Isle of Wight Youth Trust extends a special thank you to Wightlink for generously covering the travel costs for the abseilers to Portsmouth, enabling them to participate in this remarkable event.
