Tell us about your job working in fundraising? What’s your typical day/week
As the Events Fundraiser for Little Bridge House, I plan mass participation fundraising events across Devon.
We have a varied portfolio of events and therefore planning provides lots of variation and challenges. Throughout the year the priorities for each event changes, such as looking for new ideas, launching the event with the marketing team, recruiting participants, promoting the event, sourcing and managing volunteers, and planning the logistical aspects, too. No day, week or month are the same and that’s why I love my job!
What do you enjoy most about working at CHSW and/or in fundraising?
I love that no day is the same, our events range in size and type and therefore the work required to plan them changes with each one.
New events bring new challenges and require new skills so I’m always learning.
I love event day, after lots of work and planning we get to see our families, participants, spectators, supporters, and volunteers enjoying the day. This element of my job is the best!
What motivated you to apply to your role?
I had a friend who had stayed at Little Bridge House and who told me how her family had been supported by CHSW.
When the Events Fundraiser job was advertised it was my perfect role. I had experience in event management with another charity and loved the role but to gain a similar position with a well-respected local charity was an opportunity not to miss.
How did you become an Events Fundraiser? What job were you doing before?
I had previously worked for a National charity as an Event Manager and as an Area Fundraiser so had relevant experience. I also volunteered for local community events and had experience in project management, so I was able to transfer skills from those roles, too.
What would you say are the skills you need to do your job? Have you learnt any new skills since being in post?
Key skills: organisation, creativity, the ability to multitask, being calm, adaptable, a team player, using my initiative, and being confident!
I’ve learnt a lot since working for CHSW, I love that I am encouraged and supported to be creative with new ideas and events. Taking on a sculpture trail and then a marathon has been a huge learning curve.
I have gained wider experience in all aspects of event planning. Working with different departments allows me to understand how everything works together and complements our events. I have been able to improve my delegation skills, working closely alongside an amazing team.
If you could do another job within CHSW for the day, what would it be?
I love how creative and knowledgeable our brilliant Marketing Team are so would like to continue to learn from them.
How does it feel to be a part of the CHSW family?
I feel proud to work for CHSW, because of the fantastic care we provide for families, and to be part of an organisation who supports and genuinely cares for its employees.
The Fundraising Team work brilliantly together and are supportive of one another.
Tell us anything else you love about your role/CHSW...
I get to work with fabulous people both in the Fundraising Team and the wider teams within the charity.
Being part of an inspirational charity and working within a supportive team. It’s a lovely feeling to look forward to going to work and feeling pride in what you do.
3 words to describe CHSW?
Family, supportive, caring.
What inspires you in your working life?
Speaking to our Care Team and hearing stories from families. Being able to play a part in making a difference. My fabulous colleagues.