Mitch Hutchcraft Takes SAVSIM to New Heights
- Dr Joe Giordano
- May 16
- 2 min read
On 12 May, former Royal Marine and SAVSIM CIC ambassador Mitch Hutchcraft reached the summit of Mount Everest, completing an extraordinary journey that began last September with a swim across the English Channel, a cycle ride to India, and a trek to Everest Base Camp. His mission was not only one of personal endurance, but one of purpose – to raise vital funds for SAVSIM’s Warriors of Hope mental health programme and to help more veterans transition into careers preventing wildlife crime.
A mission with meaning
SAVSIM CIC was founded five years ago with a clear goal: to support the veteran community and protect endangered wildlife. Through initiatives such as Warriors of Hope, we help veterans manage PTSD and mental health challenges, while also training and mentoring them to become wildlife rangers working to combat poaching and support conservation around the world.
Mitch’s incredible achievements have shone a spotlight on this mission, earning recognition from the BBC, The Times, ITV, and Sky News, where his story featured on Page 2. His journey represents the resilience, courage, and sense of purpose that lie at the heart of our community.
Inspiration from the top of the world
From the top of the world, Mitch captured a remarkable photograph symbolising both personal triumph and collective progress for SAVSIM. His efforts have inspired countless new supporters and friends, helping us reach audiences far beyond our expectations.
Among the many moments of pride this week, receiving a handwritten note from Sir David Attenborough stands out as a truly treasured honour – a reminder of the shared commitment between the veteran and conservation communities.
Continuing the mission
As Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us, the work continues. SAVSIM CIC remains dedicated to expanding our Warriors of Hope programme in partnership with the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), and to strengthening our ranger training initiatives at locations such as the UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve in South Africa, part of the Colchester Zoological Society.
The progress we’ve made is only possible thanks to the generosity of our donors, sponsors, patrons, ambassadors, and advisory board. Your ongoing support changes lives – both for the veterans we assist and the wildlife we protect.
Thank you, Mitch
On behalf of everyone at SAVSIM CIC, and the communities we serve, thank you, Mitch, for taking our mission to new heights. Your determination embodies everything we stand for: courage, compassion, and commitment to a better future for people and the planet.
Joe Giordano
CEO & Co-Founder, SAVSIM CIC
Follow Mitch for more adventures: @_mitchhutch
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