My fundraising journey began in sixth form as part of my school's charity committee, where we raised over £15,000 for local causes. I loved every part of pulling the two-week fundraiser together and I will always remember the look on a mate's face when we revealed how much was raised.
It gave me a warm fuzzy feeling that I really liked, and I knew I wanted to do more of this.
This initial spark led me to volunteer at my local hospice, and within just a couple of months, I had secured my first paid role as Community Fundraiser.
For me, fundraising represents something truly special. Our community is full of people wanting to do good. Wanting to share best practice, top-tips and a listening ear when things are tough. This for me is what is great about being a fundraiser.
We also get direct access to people when they are being the very best of humanity. When they are selflessly giving to others, making change possible. Making life better. Whatever it is, it's powerful, emotional and phenomenal.
It's a career of hard work, tears and lots of laughter. It's incredibly difficult and yet, so very rewarding. Being a fundraiser is a career like none other and for that I am grateful every day.
My decision to join the Chartered Institute of Fundraising was driven by my commitment to excellence. I wanted to be recognised from early in my career as committed to the very best practices, standards and achievements.
We are quite 'alone' as a sector in the UK, so we need to ensure we build and maintain a community of like-minded individuals for support and growth. That is what the CIOF is for me, and can be for thousands of others.
When people ask how membership of the Chartered Institute has helped me, my response is beautifully simple: Grow. Flourish. Succeed.
It has helped me to gain a voice in my profession, where my opinions are heard and listened to as well as valued and appreciated. I feel at home with my people - knowing that I am not alone in this and that we are all striving to do our very best every single day.
My membership has given me a boost in so many ways. It has:
- Supported my career development
- Helped me gain knowledge and insight
- Helped me connect with other fundraisers
- Helped me understand the sector more
- Kept me updated about the latest sector news
- Given me confidence in my abilities.
I recognise that my membership benefits extend far beyond my individual development. It solidifies the commitment to professional, ethical, legal fundraising - so donors can confidently support knowing the right people (the trusted experts) are running things properly.
As well as being a member, I have also been the Co-Chair of the Legacy and In-Memory Special Interest Group for nearly three years, and I've hosted conferences for over 130 peers and friends. I've also spoken at Fundraising Convention and applied to join the Board of Trustees.
What I value most about my membership is the opportunities I have had. I value that it's made me a more whole fundraiser.
My volunteering has had tangible career benefits - it's been great for my CV and has undoubtedly helped me in my day-to-day work. The greater knowledge and depth of understanding is a huge benefit to the organisations I am working for.
But beyond personal gain, I see volunteering as essential for sector development. It gives me the opportunity to shape the sector, and work with peers and friends from across the sector. To learn from them day in, day out. And to be an example to others (hopefully) that we all need to pull together to make our sector as special and as impactful as it can be.
I've also engaged with the Institute's learning opportunities, which have helped me develop strategic thinking skills. After completing my learning, I felt proud, and very pleased to have finished it! My advice on professional development is to explore all options - it's a great thing to have and against your name.
My message to those considering membership is to do it! You must work with it - get involved, volunteer, raise your hand, complete a survey... whatever it is you need to commit. It'll help you more in the long run. Membership of a chartered body such as ours is not, and should never be, a one-way street.
For those considering volunteering specifically, I say please do it, and give it a good go. Commit to say three years and see how you find it, it's worth it and can make a huge difference to you and the sector.
When people ask why I volunteer with the Chartered Institute, my response captures what this community means to me - I want to give back and support my fellow fundraisers!