Alan, a companion living with us at Emmaus Colchester, is set to take on a daring 13,000 feet skydive jump this May to raise funds for our charity!
Alan came to live at Emmaus after experiencing homelessness due to a relationship breakdown and struggling with drug addiction. He now wants to support other people who have experienced homelessness, and he has pledged to raise £800 for Emmaus Colchester.
Speaking about his upcoming fundraiser Alan says “I really don’t know what I’d be doing without Emmaus, so this skydive means a lot to me. I want to help people who are facing a similar situation to what I went through. Emmaus has helped me so much and I want to raise awareness of what they do and how they support people.”
Discussing his experience at Emmaus Colchester Alan continues “The support and structure Emmaus Colchester has given me have changed my life. I have managed to kick a £1000 a week cocaine habit and haven’t touched it from the minute I walked through the door. It has helped me find a new sense of direction and purpose, and whilst I still have work to do on myself, I know in the future that I want to move into support work and help those who have been on a similar journey as my own.” You can read more of Alan’s story here
We support companions by providing a home in our community for as long as it is needed and meaningful work in our social enterprises. Having no time limit on the time spent with us means companions have the opportunity to break the cycle of homelessness and rebuild their self-esteem and confidence.
Brian our CEO says “We’re so proud of Alan and all that he’s achieved since being at Emmaus Colchester. His fundraising will enable us to support other people who have experienced homelessness and support them to regain their self-esteem and confidence. We wish him all the best – I couldn’t get up there and do it myself!
Alan will brave the Skydive at Beccles Airfield in Norfolk and will be cheered on by staff and fellow companions on the ground.
To support Alan’s fundraising challenge and the work we do, donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/alan-oakley-skydive-for-emmaus