The High Sheriff of Hampshire, William Maltby, will be swapping ceremony for adrenaline on Saturday 19th September as he abseils 100 metres down Portsmouth’s iconic Spinnaker Tower – wearing his full High Sheriff Court Dress.
If that wasn’t enough, William has also persuaded HIWCF Chief Executive, Jacqui Scott, to join him on the descent, despite her being considerably less enthusiastic about stepping over the edge.
The challenge aims to raise vital funds and awareness for HIWCF so that it can continue its work to support grassroots organisations working tirelessly to tackle poverty and inequality and strengthen communities across Hampshire, Portsmouth, Southampton and the Isle of Wight.
Each year, HIWCF awards around £1 million in grants to hundreds of local charities and community groups to help alleviate some of our communities’ most pressing issues.
William has chosen sport for young and disadvantaged people as the theme of his High Sheriff year. Throughout his tenure, he has visited numerous organisations providing opportunities through football, cricket, basketball, sailing, martial arts and other activities. Many of these organisations have received support from HIWCF, particularly during their early development, enabling them to grow and transform the lives of thousands of young people across the county.
William Maltby, High Sheriff of Hampshire, said:
“I’m taking on this challenge because I believe every community deserves the support of a thriving local charity sector. During my year as High Sheriff, I have seen first-hand the extraordinary difference Hampshire & Isle of Wight Community Foundation makes by supporting the local charities and community groups that hold our communities together. I hope this challenge will shine a light on their work and ensure even more people and communities can benefit in the years ahead.”
Jacqui Scott admits that agreeing to the challenge required a little more persuasion:
“It’s fair to say this challenge is well outside of my comfort zone… several hundred feet outside it, in fact. But if facing that fear helps more people discover the incredible work of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Community Foundation, then it will be worth every nerve-racking moment.”
After five years as Chief Executive of HIWCF, Jacqui has seen first-hand how grassroots charities are often the lifeblood of their communities, providing support to people facing poverty, isolation, poor mental health and disadvantage. By taking on one of Hampshire’s most daunting challenges, she hopes to encourage more people to discover the Foundation’s work and help ensure local charities continue to thrive.
The abseil will take place from 11am on Saturday 19th September at Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth.
Every donation will help the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Community Foundation continue investing in the community groups that are changing lives across our region.
To support William and Jacqui’s challenge, donate below or visit https://hiwcf-high-sheriff-spinnaker-tower-challenge.raiselysite.com/