When Jimmy Fitzgerald first heard about Hands Across the Water, he had no idea how deeply it would shape his life. Introduced to the charity by Kay Spencer from NARTA, he was immediately struck by the authenticity of the mission and the real, tangible impact the work was having on children’s lives.
“At the time, we weren’t aligned with any charity as a business,” Jimmy recalls. “But after hearing Kay speak about Hands, it just clicked. The values of Hands aligned so closely with our own at Media Merchants, and it felt right to be part of it.”
That decision would mark the beginning of a 15-year journey of connection, contribution, and community.
In 2010, Jimmy laced up his cycling shoes and took on his first Hands charity ride in Thailand—an 800km experience that would forever change his perspective.
“I’ll never forget arriving at Baan Than Namchai at the end of that first ride,” he says. “It was one of the most emotional moments of my life. Seeing the kids, seeing the difference we had made—it brought tears to my eyes. It was overwhelming in the best possible way.”
Since then, Jimmy has gone on to complete two more rides, including a particularly meaningful one with his son Joel. “To ride alongside him and share that experience—it’s something I’ll never forget,” he says. “To see him understand the power of giving through action was incredibly special.”
What started as a business decision has become a deeply personal mission. Through his company and community, Jimmy has helped raise significant funds for Hands, but he’s quick to deflect attention away from dollar figures.
“Yes, we’ve supported through our business, but it’s about more than money. It’s about being part of something bigger than ourselves. It’s about showing up, staying connected, and doing good in a way that’s real.”
The biggest lesson Jimmy has learned over the years?
“That giving truly is receiving,” he says. “Helping others—especially when you can see and feel the impact so directly—has given my life more purpose and meaning than I ever expected.”
He credits much of his involvement and inspiration to Kay Spencer, who he describes as the ultimate giver. “Kay leads by example. Her generosity and commitment have inspired not just me, but so many others to be better. To give more. To live with heart.”
And while he continues to lead a successful business, Jimmy says Hands has changed the way he views leadership, success, and legacy.
“It’s not just about profits or outcomes,” he says. “It’s about people. About connection. About creating something that lasts beyond you.”
Fifteen years after his first ride, Jimmy remains deeply connected to the Hands community. He stays involved not because he has to, but because he wants to. “I feel part of something here,” he says. “Something grounded. Something real.”
Hands has become a cornerstone of his personal and professional life, woven into the fabric of his values. “Helping others directly and with purpose—that’s what it’s all about,” he says.
And for anyone wondering whether getting involved is worth it?
“Start somewhere,” Jimmy says. “Anywhere. You’ll be amazed at how much your life can be enriched. You might come to give—but I promise, you’ll walk away with so much more.”
You can help us create bright futures and celebrate the impact of 20 years of Hands Across the Water at our special anniversary events in Sydney and Bangkok in October and November.
