Sky's the limit for Westport Lions president in fundraising jump

THE sky’s the limit for Westport Lions Club, who, like many other local organisations, have found fundraising very challenging over the last year.

However, president Kevin Brown has found a novel way of raising funds by volunteering to jump out of a plane in a parachute jump from 10,000 feet. No mean feat given that he's not overly fond of heights.

The big jump takes place on June 26 and you can donate here: https://gofund.me/0551e647.

Explained Kevin: “The past year has been very difficult for everyone. The local needs are as great as ever.”

Fundraising, he said, 'has been almost impossible'. “We normally have events and bring people together, so the club has had to think of new fundraising streams.

“All funds raised are used for the benefit of the community projects such as mental health services, senior citizens days out and families in the local area.”

Westport Lions Club is part of an international charity organisation that raises funds for local as well as international projects. “Our goal is to see that every euro donated to our club is devoted to community projects, causes and charities. Westport Lions have no professional management, no office or staff and all administrative expenses are paid from members’ subscriptions.”

In 2021, Westport Lions still plan to contribute to local causes: seniors’ celebrations, community mental health supports, the Christmas SVP food appeal, Message in a Bottle, diabetes awareness, and much more.

WLC are continuing to adapt to online meetings, while contributing to the Lions Club International five global causes - diabetes, hunger, environment, vision and childhood cancer.

The club recently made the contribution of €500 to the India Covid Crisis. Lions Clubs Ireland marked LCIF Day (June 12) by highlighting the generous response of the clubs in Ireland to the crisis facing the Indian healthcare system by raising $66,100 as part of worldwide LCIF appeal. It is global causes like these that local clubs in Ireland step forward and help others in need.

When asked about his acrophobia, Kevin is pushing himself to the limits, making this a challenge. “I am not keen on heights; this will be quite a feat! At 10,000 feet the world will look very different,” he said, adding that he is excited and looking forward to it.

Fundraising events such as Kevin’s sky dive needs your generous support. If you would like to donate to this endeavour, please donate through Kevin’s GoFundMe page at ‘Kevin's Charity Skydive in aid of Westport Lions’ - https://gofund.me/0551e647. The sky dive event will take place on June 26 within government guidelines.

Find out more about Westport Lions Club or if you would like to join, please contact the club's service officer, on (086) 3978377, Maggi McGing, or email westportlions@gmail.com Go to the Westport Lions Facebook page to find out more.