A fundraiser fuelled by a naked rush of adrenaline gives hope to those living with mental illness in Greater Victoria.
Entering its 19th year, the Annual Naked Bungy Jump for Mental Health is set for March 1 and March 2 at Wildplay Nanaimo.
Since its inception in 2006, the fundraiser has gathered over $500,000 in donations, with last year’s event raising over $93,000.
The fundraising efforts go towards Mental Health Recovery Partners South Island's (MHRP SI) life-saving programs for people living with mental illness. The Victoria-based, charitable, non-profit society is recovery-oriented, whose aim is to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental health and substance use challenges.
Janine Theobald, MHRP SI’s executive director, draws parallels between making the leap and mental health recovery.
“Nothing brings you into the moment like standing naked and cold on the precipice of a headfirst 150-foot drop into the river below. Handing your trust to the team, the community (and the bungy cord) to safely take the leap is a great metaphor for those first steps on one’s recovery journey with MHRP SI,” said Theobald.
WildPlay will welcome jumpers of all ages, including a headlining performance by Victoria's Vivianne Vanderpuss.
Vanderpuss, winner of Miss Congeniality of Canada’s Drag Race, Season 3, and featured in CBC Gem’s documentary series Canada’s A Drag, will jump for the second consecutive year.
“I am jumping again because I believe that MHRP SI provides essential services! I just adore the vibes at the Annual Naked Bungy Jump. The feeling of freedom while falling through the air is amazing. Last year just before I jumped, the sun poked out from behind the clouds and the misty air was so beautiful, doing the jump was oddly peaceful as well as exhilarating!” said Vanderpuss.
WildPlay CEO, Tom Benson, feels the connection between themselves and the MHRP SI is a perfect fit.
"WildPlay’s goal is to promote self-confidence by providing opportunities to step outside of your comfort zone and dissolve self-perceived barriers, so we feel we’re a good match. This is a great event that allows us to bring awareness to an important cause and create positive change while having fun,” said Benson.
Registration is open to participants 18 years of age and older at www.wildplay.com/naked-bungy.
