I worked for the children's team at Diverse Abilities in Dorset while finishing school and university. When I finished university, I just couldn't leave the charity but knew I wanted to do more to help. I looked into fundraising and loved the role of community fundraiser so I went for the job and have been in the team since 2023 and never looked back!
I love seeing how the funds raised within our local community – as individuals, groups and corporates – directly helps provide a high level of care to the people we support. I get to see firsthand the impact fundraising can make on an individual life and that is a really special thing to witness.
Also, connecting with our local community and being the biggest cheerleader for all their fundraising events and challenges is so important to me. Working as a fundraiser gives you the front row seat of seeing how well a community can come together and how generous people can be.
There is a lot I love about fundraising but I especially love seeing our young fundraisers working really hard to make a difference. Just recently this summer we had one young boy give up ketchup for two weeks because he wanted to make a difference. That is really special to me. There is something really heart warming about fundraising.
I was recommended to join by my manager for the useful information and learning provided within the membership. Membership of the Chartered Institute has helped me switch my mindset around fundraising to allow me to grow and become a better fundraiser to aid Diverse Abilities to keep going.
The information I gain through the CIoF has allowed me to get a deeper understanding of fundraising and the psychology behind it. This makes me think more proactively in my day-to-day role. As well as this, the network of other fundraisers I have met has allowed me to have someone to talk to about ideas who will have experience and knowledge.
The network I have made is indescribable. Fundraising isn't a competition and there is always a listening ear when I need to run an idea past someone or get some insight into another charity who has explored certain areas before. It has also allowed me to take my role as a fundraiser on a professional pathway to build a career I am proud of.
Joining also introduced me to Fundraising Convention which I have volunteered at for the past two years. I didn't know anyone at my first Convention but came away with a network of new friends. Fundraising Convention inspired me to grow and personally develop in the fundraising sector. It is so inspirational listening to amazing people in this field of work.
I volunteer with the Chartered Institute because I learn so much from inspirational people to take back to Diverse Abilities. It allows me to stay passionate about the work I do.
I've also been able to use my membership to progress in my fundraising journey where I am currently completing my diploma with the CIoF. It has taught me a whole new frame of mind and a way of looking at fundraising. I am still undertaking the diploma, and it has allowed me to become more part of the team by sharing knowledge and making choices backed with knowledge and research.
I couldn't recommend the CIoF more and what you gain from a membership is brilliant. The Chartered Institute is making fundraising a profession to feel so proud of and that alone for me is enough to join.
If you're passionate to develop, it is 100% worth it. The membership supports career development, helps you gain knowledge and insight, connects you with other fundraisers, helps you understand the sector more, keeps you updated about the latest sector news, and gives you confidence in your abilities – not to mention the discounts and savings on events and training.
For someone early in their fundraising career like me, membership has been transformational. It's given me the tools, the network, and the confidence to build a career I'm truly proud of.