Manchester rapper Aitch dropped by NSS’s Altrincham office last week to say thank you for backing his Mount Kilimanjaro climb. NSS was acquired by Premier Technical Services Group Ltd (PTSG) in January 2022, becoming the largest constituent company of the Group’s Building Access Specialists division. The chart-topping artist smashed his fundraising target for the Down Syndrome Association, a cause close to his heart.
Aitch and his team powered through the climb in just six days – much quicker than the usual ten-day expedition and raised a whopping £160,000 for the Down Syndrome Association. That’s more than double their original £70,000 goal.
The trek wasn’t just another celebrity challenge for Aitch. His younger sister has Down syndrome, giving him a personal connection to the charity’s work. The money raised will help the Down Syndrome Association support people with Down syndrome and their families, including their vital work helping people into jobs.
The group taking on Africa’s highest mountain ranged from 21 to 66 years old, with everyone making it to the top despite battling altitude sickness and tough conditions.
Mike Maloney, Project Director at NSS explained: “We couldn’t be prouder to get behind such an important cause. Seeing Aitch take on this monster challenge for the Down Syndrome Association really fits with the values we believe in at NSS.”
There was an extra connection too – one of NSS’s own team members, Martin McDonough, joined Aitch’s crew for the climb, making its support even more meaningful. Martin shared: “Down Syndrome Association is close to my heart. Having a family member with Down Syndrome makes it even more special. Raising money, making more people aware, and helping improve the lives of those with Down Syndrome around the world is something I’m proud to be part of.”
The backing of Aitch’s climb is part of NSS’s ongoing charity work. The company has long supported Cash for Kids and other local causes that make a difference in our communities.
Aitch told NSS how the trek took them through completely different landscapes, from lush jungle-like terrain at the start, through what he described as “Mars-like” red boulder fields, all the way to the snow-covered summit.
Kilimanjaro, standing at 5,895 meters above sea level, is the highest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. Trekking to the summit is described as the adventure of a lifetime, a test of physical and mental strength rewarded with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Looking ahead, there’s talk of organising a skydive to raise further funds, with Aitch expressing interest in participating.
The Down Syndrome Association helps people with Down syndrome lead full, rewarding lives. They don’t just focus on health support, but also on getting people into work and becoming active members of their communities. Want to know more about the Down Syndrome Association or make a donation? Visit www.downs-syndrome.org.uk
