Navy Race 2024 (Sat 03 Aug) for Daukaia (my wife's NGO)

Once again, for the third consecutive year, I have decided to attempt to complete the 8 km cross-country and water circuit, with 30 obstacles including a 5m rope climb, being shot at by paintball guns and jumping off a navy ship before swimming to the finish line.

Last year I successfully crossed the finish line in 2h02min where my lovingly undoubting daughter was waiting. It was an amazing feeling and a great way to mark the 20th anniversary of my skydiving accident in 2003.

Last year I was amazed by the generosity of all the donations. We raised 13,625 nok (£1,048, 1158€) and the money helped Daukaia to take on a further 9 children, growing from 55 to 64 children. A huge thank you to all of you for your contributions from everyone at Daukaia and from me. It's very humbling.

This year I am hoping to raise some more funds for Daukaia to help with several important things:

1. Roof repair (cost: ~3000krs | £230 | 255€)

The roof of the venue was badly damaged during a storm a few weeks ago (a branch fell on it) and needs to be repaired. The cost is higher than expected and has to be covered by funds that would otherwise been used for the main purpose of the organisation.,

2. Glasses (cost 2300krs)

One of the educators and 5 of the children need glasses. Cost: 800 kr for the educator, 300 kr per child (2.300 kr total).

3. The main purpose of Daukaia

200 kr provides education, a daily meal and personal care and support for one child for a month.

Below are some photos taken since last summer and a message from Daukaia about what they do.

DAUKAIA

A brighter future for children in Ocotal, Nicaragua

For over 10 years, Daukaia has been an oasis of hope, learning and security for children in Ocotal, Nicaragua. We work closely with local schools and families to provide support, education and care to the most vulnerable children in society. Our work is not only about immediate assistance but also about creating long-term changes.

Ocotal is a city in northern Nicaragua. The city and the surrounding area have been greatly affected by challenges such as poverty, limited access to water and basic resources and a fragmented education system. Many children and families in Ocotal live in difficult conditions, characterized by a lack of infrastructure, limited job opportunities and a high incidence of social problems. This creates a vulnerable situation for many.

Daukaia is an organization that since 2012 has been working to improve the lives of children and families living in poverty and challenging conditions in Nicaragua. Our most important goal is to provide a safe haven, education and care to the most vulnerable in our society.

We work closely with local communities, schools and families to create lasting changes and give children the resources they need to thrive and develop. We give children access to quality teaching, learning resources and support from dedicated educators.

In addition to education, we also focus on health and well-being. We offer a daily meal and programs to promote physical and mental health among the children. We believe in the importance of providing children with a safe and loving atmosphere where they can feel valued and supported.

Daukaia also works to strengthen local communities and involve parents and carers in the children's education and development. We offer training and guidance to parents so that they can become more active participants in their children's learning and well-being.

The local education authorities in Ocotal have allocated us an indoor and outdoor area in the Noel Wheelock preschool which we can use for free. Our expenses go to salaries for our employees in Ocotal (in Norway the organization is run on a voluntary basis), purchasing educational materials, food, internet, maintenance and other operating costs.

The money we raise will be used to support and further develop our existing programs and initiatives that focus on education, health, nutrition and social support for children and families in vulnerable situations. The money will help ensure that children have access to quality education, adequate nutrition, health services and protection against violence and abuse. The funds will also help to improve our facilities and resources, so that we can continue to offer safe and stimulating learning environments for the children.

With NOK 200 a month, we ensure education, a daily meal and personal care and support for one child.

With your support, we can continue to offer safety, education and care to even more children in Ocotal. The money we collect through this campaign will go directly to ensure that the children have access to quality education, nutrition, healthcare and psychosocial support. You can help give them the tools they need to succeed and build brighter lives for themselves and a fairer society around them.

You also help us by sharing this campaign with your friends and family.