On August 14th (weather permitting), an extraordinary event is set to occur on the rolling hills of Yorkshire. The local community of Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, is buzzing with anticipation for a tandem paraglide featuring two prominent figures – Sam Cullingworth, former World Champion Body Builder and Howlands’ resident fitness guru, and Mark Eastwood, Conservative MP for Dewsbury. This thrilling endeavour aims to raise much-needed funds for Howlands, a revered independent charity and community hub.

Howlands, known for its tireless efforts in supporting disadvantaged adults, plays an essential role in our community by tackling loneliness and social isolation. The organisation holds a rich history spanning over 70 years of service in Dewsbury Town Centre, making it the largest and only fully accessible community centre in the area.

Daring Sam, fondly known as ‘Sam the Man’, is no stranger to challenges. As a fitness enthusiast and celebrated bodybuilder, he’s setting his sights on the skies this time, promising an adventure that’s bound to “scare the life out of” our local MP, Mark Eastwood. The duo’s jump off a Yorkshire hill (TBC) is expected to generate much excitement and, more importantly, valuable contributions for Howlands.

Speaking about the event, Sam shared, “In the world of paragliding, we believe it’s better to be up there wishing you were down here than vice versa. Mark is showing incredible courage by joining me on this venture. While there’s a fair bit of banter about whether I’ll let go or bring him back down safely, the crux of this event is about making a significant difference for Howlands. This charity holds a special place in my heart, and the incredible work it does benefits countless individuals. I urge everyone to donate generously if you can.”

We wholeheartedly echo Sam’s sentiments. Howlands needs our support now more than ever. This community hub is a lifeline for many, offering a sense of purpose, a safe space, and the opportunity to feel part of something greater.

As one of our regular attendees puts it, “Coming here in the morning gives me a reason to get up and gives me purpose to the day, instead of watching TV all day.” Another long-term visitor shared, “We have been attending the coffee morning for around forty years, met many friends and we have a lovely morning out. We would be devastated if this place closed.”

Mark Boocock, Development Officer at Howlands said: “What a fabulous gesture by Sam and Mark. Howlands is a wonderful place doing amazing work to help people, I’d urge anybody who can to donate to this amazing charity. Your generous contributions will help ensure that Howlands continues to make a difference to the people it supports and to our wider community. Let’s stand together, or tandem paraglide if you’re brave enough, to keep this wonderful place going.”

For more updates on Howlands’ future events and fundraisers, stay tuned. In the meantime, those wishing to contribute can do so via the JustGiving page:

Remember, every little bit helps in making a big difference in our community!

Howlands recently received an unexpected gift that has revitalised its recycling initiative.

A long-time supporter discovered an assortment of gardening tools in the back of her shed and thoughtfully decided to donate them to our cause.

The tools were a bit worn and tarnished, a testament to years of hard work in gardens and flower beds, but this did not diminish their potential.

With the arrival of the tools, our recycling project found a new focus. Armed with elbow grease, wire wool, and an oily rag, our dedicated team of volunteers set to work on these relics from the back of a shed.

Now sparkling and ready for use, these tools are not just functional but carry with them a story of renewal and second chances. As with all items that pass through Howlands recycling project, these gardening tools will be given a new home, where they will continue to bring value and joy.