Douglas Bader Foundation capitalises fundraising with licence agreements

Chiswick based Douglas Bader Foundation (DBF), the charity formed following the death in 1982 of legendary double amputee fighter pilot Douglas Bader, immortalised in the book and film ’Reach for the Sky’, has come up with an innovative way of fundraising by signing license agreements with a collectable company and with former Military Gallery owner Pat Barnard for an auction and specialist sale web site.

"2010 is a significant year for the DBF - The 100th anniversary of Douglas’ birth in February and the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain in which he played a part,’’ chairman and Douglas’ son in law David Bickers told ChiswickW4.com.

"I personally have been involved in the Licensing Industry for over 30 years so I see licensing the DBF brand and name as a natural fund raising mechanic."

Formed by family and friends, many of whom had flown side by side with Douglas during World War 2 The Douglas Bader Foundation exists to advance and promote the physical, mental and spiritual welfare of persons who are without one or more limbs, or otherwise physically disabled.

"A disabled person who fights back is not disabled….but inspired." It is this maxim that the charitable foundation established in Douglas’s name immediately following his death in 1982, seeks to replicate and develop.

DBF initiatives include Bader Amputee Games for new amputees. Bader Grants for amputee disabled, Bader Challenges – Hikes and Bike journeys; Bader Flying Days, establishing the Limb Loss Information Centre as a central resource information website for amputees, their families and friends, carers and healthcare professionals.

January 27, 2010