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12 Dips In December

This December we are inviting you to take on the ‘12 Dips in December’ for Depaul – to help us raise funds to end homelessness across the Island of Ireland and change the lives of those affected by it.

Every Dip you take, every Euro you raise will help us to provide shelter and comfort for those experiencing homelessness. 

What’s it all about?

The good news is it’s easy! We’re asking you to brave the elements and take a Dip in the sea, lake, river or even take a cold plunge in an ice bath – 12 times during the month of December. 

Dip your toe, dip your head if you dare and help raise vital funds for Depaul. Get a little uncomfortable in order to make someone experiencing homelessness more comfortable this December. 

By signing up for this challenge – your fundraising can help provide hot meals, and somewhere safe and warm to sleep for someone who is experiencing homelessness across the island of Ireland. 

How it works:

    1. Sign up here – register today to take part in the 12 Dips in December challenge. Once you are registered and have your first donation we will send out your Depaul beanie! To arrange for us to get this to you please email fundraising@depaulcharity.net. 
    2. Share and fundraise – set your fundraising target and share the link with your community, family, friends on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram etc and drive your fundraising efforts. 
    3. Get going and complete the 12 Dips – you choose how and when you Dip – just commit to 12 Dips in December and keep a log of your Dips on your fundraising page. 
    4. Get social – Share your pictures of your dips with us on Depaul’s social – and let’s drive awareness together to help raise vital funds to support our work with those most vulnerable in our community. 
    5. Your safety is our priority. Participation in the cold water dip is entirely voluntary and at your own risk. Please ensure you are fit and well before taking part, enter the water slowly, never dive or jump in, and do not stay in the water longer than you feel comfortable. Avoid participating if you are unwell or have any underlying health concerns without first seeking medical advice.
    6. Have warm, dry clothing ready for afterwards and exit the water immediately if you feel unwell, dizzy, numb or distressed.

Please remember: it’s about taking part, staying safe and supporting a great cause!

Click on the link below to create your own Fundraiser.

Create your own Fundraiser

 

Frequently asked questions:

  1. Is it free to take part?

Yes participation is free – we just ask that you fundraise. 

  1. How do I set up my fundraising page?

Click on the button above and follow the steps to create your own fundraising page. It should take less than 5 minutes to set up, if you have any issues, reach out to our team on fundraising@depaulcharity.net.

  1. How do I keep track of my Dips?

Keep a log on your fundraising page – then you can keep count and your community can also follow your progress! 

  1. Can I just donate instead of fundraising?

Absolutely – you can donate directly on the Depaul website anytime.  https://ie.depaulcharity.org/

  1. How long do I need to stay in the water?

There is no minimum time. The dip is about taking part and raising funds, not endurance. Listen to your body and leave the water if you feel uncomfortable.

  1. Do I need experience of cold water swimming to take part?

No experience is necessary. The dip is open to beginners and experienced swimmers alike. However, we would suggest you should be comfortable around water and aware of the risks associated with cold water immersion.

  1. How will Depaul use the funds I raise?

All the proceeds will be used to support Depaul’s mission to end homelessness and change the lives of those effected by it. 

 

Tips for Dipping in cold water

  1. If possible don’t swim alone – try to dip with a buddy, keep time for each other and plan your exit should you need it. 
  2. Enter slowly – Never jump or dive into cold water; let your body adjust.
  3. Plan ahead – familiarise yourself with the location of nearby lifeguard stations or emergency services. 
  4. Keep it short – Know your limits. Stay close to shore – a quick dip is enough!
  5. Stay safe – Keep your head above water, stay close to shore and listen to your body.
  6. Warm up quickly – Get dry, dress warmly, put on a hat and warm up gradually.
  7. Safety first: No fundraising target is worth putting yourself at risk for.

Brave the cold, support the cause, enjoy the experience – but always put safety first!