Employees of engineering specialist Spencer Group have raised more than half of the company’s £5,000 charity fundraising target in just three months.
Fundraising efforts this year have been accelerated by the introduction of dedicated volunteer “Charity Champions” across the Hull-based business, who have responsibility for generating ideas and organising new activities and events.
Teenage Cancer Trust, which offers specialist care and support for young sufferers of cancer and their loved ones, was nominated for support by a staff member who witnessed first-hand the care it provided for his friend’s son, including care at its dedicated wards at Castle Hill Hospital, in Cottingham.
Heather Bowen, Senior Relationship Manager at the charity, delivered a series of talks to explain what it does to support teenagers diagnosed with cancer, their family and friends. Staff working on sites across the UK were able also to access the talks via video link.
Spencer Group has now arranged for Heather to visit Ron Dearing University Technical College to speak to students. The business is a Founding Partner of the school, from which it has recruited 50 apprentices in just five years.
Charity Champion Emily Marshall, Administrative Assistant at the group, said: “I’m really enjoying helping raise funds for Teenage Cancer Trust. The people affected are a similar age to me, so it’s given me a different perspective on life.
“It’s been great to meet Heather and hear about the work they do to support not only the teenagers, but their families as well. Since the symptoms are not always obvious, knowing more about the charity’s work and the symptoms to watch out for has helped us raise awareness.”
HR Director Yvonne Moir said: “It’s really important for us, as a business, to engage with the communities where we work and to raise money for good causes that are important to our staff. We always try to have a positive impact, and its gives colleagues the opportunity to give something back, whilst having a bit of fun at the same time.
“Teenage Cancer Trust does incredible work, and the team have done a wonderful job so far to raise so much money for this important charity. This is just the start; however, and we have so much more planned.”
Fundraising activities and events held this year that have already helped raise more than £3,000 include bake sales and an Easter raffle.
Spencer Group will be holding sponsored walks, a darts tournament, pub quiz night, ale trail and Wimbledon-themed table tennis competition throughout the year. Staff are also taking part in a “Total Warrior” obstacle course to raise money.
In addition, watercolour paintings by talented artist Lucy Grierson, Spencer Group’s Systems Director, will be presented in a gallery and auctioned off.
Spencer Group’s regular charity fundraising contributed to it being named the Best Place to Work at the 10th annual HullBID Awards earlier this year.
