ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. — People jumped out of a plane in Elizabethtown for a good cause, as United Way of Central Kentucky hosted its inaugural "Skydive for Change" fundraiser.
“I don't know if my heart has stopped ... I’m kind of numb right now, but I'm excited,” said Michelle Mitchell, participant.
For most of Mitchell’s life, her feet have stayed on the ground.
“Nothing in the sky other than an airplane; no roller coasters, no ferris wheels and nothing like that ever,” she said.
That changed Saturday, as Mitchell skydived as part of the fundraiser, which raised money for United Way of Central Kentucky's Operation Good Neighbor program.
“I think it's worth it for people that are having issues with their houses, housing issues, emergencies that come up and not able to afford it," she said. "If I can help, this is a great way to do it."
Operation Good Neighbor helps homeowners in need by making repairs to their homes so they don’t have to move out. They include new floors, cleaned gutters and other things that will improve their quality of life, said Rachel Watkins, United Way of Central Kentucky director of operations.
The 10 participants skydiving each raised at least $1,500 for the cause.
“We thought, what a unique and fun way to get people involved, to bring attention … to who we are, what we're doing and the goals we're trying to meet,” Watkins said.
After jumping from 10,000 feet, falling at 120 miles per hour and safely landing on the ground, Mitchell was full of emotions.
“I feel exhilarated, powerful, empowered; it’s actually an amazing experience,” Mitchell said, who added she'd probably skydive again.
United Way of Central Kentucky estimated it raised about $20,000 with its 10 jumpers and sponsorships.