When Jake Blickenstaff, an Agent with UC Premier Properties, was asked to participate in ESP Athens' final Big Jump fundraiser, he saw it as an opportunity to combine something he loves with a cause he deeply believes in. After eight years as a recreational skydiver, Jake stepped forward to support ESP Athens' mission of creating opportunities, connection, and belonging for individuals with disabilities and their families.
When Patrick asked Jake to become his superhero for the organization's final Big Jump and take on the challenge of raising $5,000, there was no hesitation.
"I was genuinely honored," Jake said. "Knowing this would be the 15th and final Big Jump made the opportunity even more meaningful. There was no hesitation. I accepted immediately and felt a real responsibility to show up for Patrick and ESP in a big way."
For years, Jake watched participants arrive at Big Jump carrying a mix of excitement, nerves, and determination. As a recreational skydiver, he had a front-row seat to the event and the enthusiasm surrounding ESP Athens' mission.
"There’s something special about watching new faces arrive excited, nervous, and sometimes completely terrified, ready to step outside their comfort zones while raising money for an incredible cause," Jake said.
After witnessing that energy year after year, he decided it was time to move from spectator to participant.
Participating in Big Jump gave him the opportunity to combine something he loves with a cause he deeply believes in.
What makes ESP Athens stand out to Jake is its commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their families.
"ESP Athens creates opportunities for people with disabilities and their families to experience belonging, connection, growth, and purpose," he said.
For Jake, the organization's impact extends far beyond events or activities. He sees their work as transformational, helping participants build confidence, independence, and lasting relationships while feeling fully included in their communities.
"They aren't simply organizing activities," Jake said. "They are creating transformative experiences that help people build confidence, develop greater independence, and feel fully included in their community."
Having supported numerous nonprofit organizations throughout Northeast Georgia, Jake says ESP remains at the very top of his list because of the difference it makes not only for participants, but for families and the community as a whole.
Giving back has been a consistent theme throughout Jake's life.
From serving in the Navy to building a career in commercial real estate and development, he has always viewed success through the lens of service.
"Serving others has given me a sense of purpose and shaped how I approach nearly everything," Jake said. "My time in the Navy taught me discipline, accountability, and the importance of being part of something larger than myself."
That perspective continues to influence the way he approaches his work today. While commercial real estate is often associated with buildings, investments, and transactions, Jake believes the real focus is on people and communities.
"Whether I'm helping a client navigate an important decision or working to bring new life to an overlooked building, I see the work as an opportunity to solve problems, create opportunities, and leave something better than I found it."
As his career has grown, so has his desire to use his experience, relationships, and resources to help support organizations making a difference.
"Success means more when you can use it to make a positive difference for someone else," he said. "Even when that means jumping out of a perfectly good airplane."
More than anything, Jake hopes his Big Jump experience encourages others to take action in support of causes they care about.
"I hope people recognize that meaningful change requires participation," he said. "It's easy to talk about wanting stronger communities and better opportunities, but progress only happens when people are willing to get involved."
Whether that means volunteering, donating, sharing expertise, or simply helping build momentum around a worthwhile mission, Jake believes everyone can make a difference.
"You do not have to support every cause or solve every problem," he said. "Find something that genuinely matters to you and commit to it."
For Jake, that cause is ESP Athens.
Those interested in supporting Jake's fundraising efforts can contribute through his fundraising page: Support Jake's ESP Athens Fundraiser.
As he prepares for the final Big Jump, Jake's focus isn't just on the jump itself. It's on supporting an organization that creates life-changing opportunities and encouraging others to become part of the solution.