Jumping out of an airplane isn’t how most people spend a Saturday morning. But for a group of nonprofit leaders, legislative staff and community volunteers, the 14,000-foot leap was about more than adrenaline. It was a way to draw attention to two Worcester County organizations working with vulnerable young people.
The third annual Sky’s the Limit campaign pulled participants to Skydive Danielson on July 11, where they parachuted in support of CASA Project Worcester County and Legendary Legacies, two nonprofits focused on advocacy, mentorship and support for children and young adults. The event has raised more than $7,000 so far, according to organizers.
The annual fundraiser paired the spectacle of skydiving with peer-to-peer fundraising, asking participants not only to make the jump but also to encourage friends, family and colleagues to support the organizations’ work.
Among those taking part were CASA Executive Director Julie Bowditch and Legendary Legacies Executive Director Ron Waddell, each making their third consecutive jump alongside event founders Sean Brennan and Liz Wambui. Representatives from the offices of state Sens. Michael Moore and Robyn Kennedy also participated.
For Kayanna James, district director for Kennedy and a former CASA volunteer, the skydive reflected a commitment that began long before stepping onto the airplane.
“I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that children and families in the system face, and I know how important it is to have people who show up consistently,” James said in the announcement. “This wasn’t just a jump — it was a leap of faith, a commitment to service, and a reminder that meaningful change often begins when we’re willing to do something difficult.”
This year’s event also expanded participation by inviting additional community leaders and longtime supporters to serve as both skydivers and fundraisers.
Among them was Erin Jansky, vice president of CASA’s board of directors and a former CASA volunteer, who completed her first skydive while raising more than $2,500 — surpassing her original fundraising goal.
“As a former CASA volunteer, I’ve seen how powerful that support can be for children facing instability and uncertainty,” Jansky said in the announcement. “Participating in a skydive was definitely several thousand feet outside of my comfort zone, but jumping out of a plane helped raise awareness and resources for vulnerable children in our community, so it was an easy yes.”
Other participants included Pamela Andrade, Jessica Favreau and Najee Muhammad, who also helped raise money for the campaign.
“Every person who jumped from that plane also took a leap for the wellbeing of our community,” Bowditch said in the announcement. “We are inspired by the courage and generosity of our partners, donors, and supporters. Together, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.”
CASA Project Worcester County recruits and trains volunteer advocates for children involved in the child welfare system, while Legendary Legacies provides mentorship, workforce development and support for young men of color affected by incarceration, gang involvement and other systemic challenges.
Organizers said donations to the Sky’s the Limit campaign directly supports both organizations’ efforts to expand services for children, youth and families throughout Worcester County.
Have a story tip, community concern, or insight to share? Email Editor Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org.
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