Tell us a bit about yourself, where do you work and what is your role?
I am a Regional Fundraiser at the Fire Fighters Charity, I’ve only just started, so I’m very much getting to grips with my new role.
What made you want to volunteer at Convention previously?
I first volunteered at Convention in 2016 I think it was, I was trying to get another paid role in the sector. At the time I was volunteering for a local hospice in the fundraising team once a week and wanted to learn, make connections and understand what more I could do to make my dream a reality.
What are the benefits of volunteering at convention?
You’re part of an incredible team, who are welcoming, fun and you also make wonderful connections in the sector too. It’s a great opportunity to make new friends and get to know the Chartered Institute staff and make connections in the sector, including meeting potential suppliers. I can’t recommend being a volunteer at Convention enough.
Has volunteering at Convention helped your career progression or your day-to-day fundraising?
It’s helped me have a team of wonderful fellow fundraisers who I can ask for help, support and advice and given me some friends for life, some of whom, I only see at Convention.
Does your organisation benefit from you being a member and volunteer, if so, how?
Our charity is an organisational member; however, I’ve not been here long enough to know more about its impact on the charity. However, being a member, allows me the opportunity to gain insight and learnings that I can take back to my job for a much-reduced cost. Most of all, volunteering at Convention provides me with so much passion and energy that I come back buzzing with ideas and thinking of ways in which I could do more in my role.
What are your favourite memories of volunteering at convention?
I’ve got lots of wonderful memories over the years, however, I did love the Grease social we did, I think in my first year and I also loved being on the registration desk last year. It was so nice to be one of the welcoming faces to Convention and a great way to say hello to lots of people too. As you’re starting how they find their time at Convention.
Do you have any tips for those volunteering for the first time at convention?
Come with comfy shoes, prepared to get stuck in and have a long but fun filled few days. It’s a brilliant experience and a lot of fun.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Thank you for asking me to take part & don’t forget to apply to be a volunteer at Convention this year.