I started volunteering for NSPCC in 1997 until 2001 and then in 2004 I became a volunteer at Sargent Cancer Care which I did for three years before becoming their Events Fundraiser and my fundraising career has progressed from there. I’m now the Events and Marketing Coordinator at Charis Cancer Care in Northern Ireland.
I love being a fundraiser because I'm passionate about building lasting relationships and creating meaningful impact.
I love connecting individuals with causes that inspire them, and I believe that storytelling and heart are the foundation of successful fundraising. What drives me is knowing that each conversation, campaign, or contribution helps make real change possible.
Whether I’m crafting a compelling appeal or sharing the story of someone whose life has been changed, I’m always working to bridge generosity and impact in powerful ways.
I joined the Chartered Institute of Fundraising because, at the time I was a sole fundraiser and I wanted to be part of a professional community that shares my values and commitment.
I saw it as an opportunity to keep learning, stay up to date with sector trends, and connect with others who understand the challenges and rewards of this work. Being a member has helped me grow in confidence, develop my skills and feel part of something bigger than just my own role or organisation.
Membership of the Chartered Institute has helped me grow as a fundraising professional by giving me access to best practice, expert insights, and a network of inspiring peers.
It’s strengthened my confidence and credibility, grounding my work in high ethical standards and equipping me to lead as a senior fundraiser with integrity.
What I value most about my membership is the sense of community and shared purpose. It’s incredibly motivating to be part of a network of fundraisers who are all striving to do good — and to do it well.
Most importantly, it’s connected me to a passionate community of fundraisers who are all committed to making a meaningful difference.
Being a member of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising helps my charity and its beneficiaries by ensuring that our fundraising is grounded in best practice, ethical standards, and the latest sector insight. It means I can bring fresh ideas, informed strategies, and a professional approach to donor relationships — all of which helps us raise more funds, more effectively.
Ultimately, that translates into greater impact for the people and communities we serve. Membership also gives me access to a wider network of fundraisers, so we’re never working in isolation — we’re learning, sharing, and improving together for the benefit of our cause
If you’re not already a member of the Chartered Institute, I’d say ‘why are you not already a member?!’
Joining the Chartered Institute is one of the best investments I have made in my career. It’s not just about resources, it’s about being part of a professional community that gets it — the challenges, the passion, the impact.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, membership gives you the tools, knowledge, and support to do your job better and feel more confident doing it.
When I joined the Chartered Institute in 2022, I also became a member of the Northern Ireland National Group committee.
One of the things I love about the group is the camaraderie with the other committee members, supporting each other and learning from each other.
I became the Events Lead for the group shortly after joining the committee and recently became the Chair which is incredible. Sometimes I still can't quite believe it and if I hadn't become a member - none of this would have happened. It’s fantastic that the committee have put their faith in me to lead them.
Volunteering with the Chartered Institute is a great way to give back to your profession while also developing yourself. You’ll get the chance to grow your network, build your leadership and communication skills, and gain deeper insights into your industry.
It’s also incredibly rewarding to help shape the future of your profession - whether that’s by mentoring, supporting other groups, contributing to policy, or helping organise events. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to get more involved beyond your day-to-day role, I’d definitely recommend it.
I volunteer with the Chartered Institute because I believe in giving back to the profession that has given me so much. It allows me to make a real impact, support others, and continue growing both personally and professionally. I enjoy connecting with like-minded professionals, staying engaged with the industry, and contributing to something bigger than myself.
I really value the access to learning and resources that keep me informed, inspired, and constantly improving in my role.
My learning has given me both strategic insight and practical tools that I’ve been able to apply directly in my work. Whether it’s through case studies, peer discussions or the presenter, I’ve gained a clearer understanding of best practices and emerging trends. It’s helped me approach challenges more confidently, make more informed decisions, and contribute more effectively to my team and organisation.
My learning has played a key role in both my personal and professional development. It’s expanded my knowledge, boosted my confidence, and helped me see the bigger picture in my role.
I’ve developed stronger critical thinking and communication skills, and I’ve been able to step into new opportunities with greater clarity and purpose. It’s also encouraged a mindset of continuous learning, which has been invaluable for staying adaptable and motivated in a fast-changing environment.
After completing my learning, I feel a real sense of achievement and pride. It is rewarding to see the hard work pay off, and it gives me a confidence boost knowing I’ve gained valuable knowledge and skills I can immediately apply. It also leaves me feeling more motivated and better equipped to take on new challenges in my role. Most of all, it reinforces my commitment to ongoing professional development.
I’d absolutely encourage anyone to do learning with the Charted Institute – it is a great investment in yourself and your career. The content is relevant, practical, and designed by experts who understand the real challenges professionals face. It not only builds your knowledge and confidence but also connects you with a wider network of peers. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise, progress in your role, or simply stay ahead of the curve, it’s a smart and rewarding step to take.