On Thursday September 15, over 40 courageous individuals are set to take on a huge personal challenge in Graeme Dingle Foundations ‘Drop Your Boss’ fundraiser as they bungy jump 192 metres from Auckland’s Sky Tower.
Participants have been hard at work dedicating their time to fundraising toward a goal of $50,000 for the cause, which supports the mental fitness and development of young people across Aotearoa New Zealand. Drop Your Boss is an annual event which has been postponed for a number of years due to the pandemic, making this year’s fundraiser all the more special.
Well known Kiwis are among those taking part in the feat this year including Paula Bennett – former politician and TV show host who opened up about her fear of heights “I am terrified of heights and find it completely bonkers to jump off a building but I’m also passionate about helping the Graeme Dingle Foundation in their mission to build young people’s resilience through physical and mental challenges.”
Over 40 individuals have taken on the bungy challenge including Foundation supporting partners Kmart, Milford, Chapman Tripp, Bidfood, Mitre 10, KPMG, Redvespa, Fujitsu & more.
Mitre 10 DIY Legend, Stan Scott said “I love getting into the community and helping to teach and upskill people, so I’m excited to help raise money for the Graeme Dingle Foundation, which supports Kiwi kids to build resilience, mental fitness and life skills. Mitre 10 has supported the foundation for a long time and this year they’re stepping up as the new national sponsor of community projects. To celebrate and raise some extra funds, they’re throwing me off the Sky Tower!”
Principal of One Tree Hill College, Nick Coughlan is also taking the leap “I have been Principal of One Tree Hill College for 12 years. I have seen the amazing impact that Project K has had on so many students from our college. I am fully committed to Project K, and we have sent a group of students on the programme every year. It is now our chance to show our thanks and support this programme to ensure it continues for future generations!”
The cause is a worthwhile investment for donors who can know that every dollar donated to the Foundation sees a return of $7.80 to New Zealand’s economy based on the likely positive trajectory of a young person who has been involved in the charity’s programmes.
Graeme Dingle Foundations Partnerships Manager, Stephanie Brown shared her gratitude to the supporters coming together for our nation’s youth at a critical time
“Seeing our partners come back for another year of fundraising has been brilliant. In the past two years we’ve seen a new level of student disengagement and anxiety, so now more than ever it’s important that people get behind our cause and event.”
“Our loyal participants who are showing their willingness to step out of their comfort zone, are not only encouraging others to support the Graeme Dingle Foundation, but they’re acting as role models, showing young Kiwis that it is possible to overcome your fears and the challenges life may present you. Their strength and leadership goes such a long way and we’re thankful for their support” says Brown
The public are invited to contribute to the fundraising efforts of fearless sky-jumpers by visiting givealittle.co.nz and searching ‘Drop Your Boss’ or by coming along on the day to cheer on participants.
Drop Your Boss will take place at Auckland’s Sky Tower on Thursday September 15.