Ruth Moore, head of training and events at the Institute of Fundraising, says the National Awards is more than just an event – it’s an inspiration for the whole sector
The annual re-launch of the Institute of Fundraising (IoF) National Awards is very exciting for everyone at the IoF. It marks the start of a process that will throw the spotlight on the very best in our sector – and demonstrate how fundraising changes people’s lives both in the UK and across the world.
Recognising the commitment of individuals, teams and organisations is always important, and so is rewarding outstanding work and achievement, but I believe it is particularly relevant during this ongoing period of economic uncertainty.
The fundraising profession changes the world through the dedication and skill of fundraisers, and the awards are a true reflection of the exceptional talent and passion that flourishes in our sector. The National Awards showcase excellence, recognise achievement, and celebrate the successes throughout fundraising over the past year. They are the only awards created by fundraisers, for fundraisers.
This year we have 21 categories, including new awards specifically designed to reflect the breadth of work being undertaken by fundraisers. The most notable new award is for the Best Child Fundraiser (16 years and under). We would like charities to nominate young people they have met or worked with who they think deserve recognition for their fundraising. The award will not only recognise some special young people, but it will also encourage the next generation of fundraisers. Last year the Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year (the category was for adult or child) was 11-year-old Harry Moseley, who raised more than £500,000 for Cancer Research UK by selling handmade bracelets. Very sadly Harry died in 2011, but his mother collected the award on his behalf. It was an extremely moving moment and everyone in the audience was touched.
Extraordinary passion
The National Awards ceremony is a very special event to be a part of. Eight hundred people attend and if 2013 is anything like last year, which saw the audience go from tears to a standing ovation, it will be a night filled with emotion. It is awards such as the Gill Astarita Fundraiser of the Year, Fundraising Team of the Year, or the award for Lifetime Contribution, that evoke extraordinary passion from the audience when the winners are announced.
Our host for 2013 is TV presenter Helen Skelton, who has first-hand experience of fundraising. Helen has taken on high profile, record breaking challenges for charity. In 2012 she made a 500-mile Antarctic expedition to the South Pole in 18 days by ski, bike and kite in aid of Sport Relief. The previous year before that, she completed a dramatic high-wire walk across Battersea Power Station for Red Nose Day 2011.
I believe the awards encourage voluntary and professional fundraisers to perform even better. It helps the sector to flourish and continue to provide essential support to vulnerable communities and individuals.
Winner of the 2012 Lifetime Contribution Award Joe Saxton, founder of research consultancy nfpSynergy, and former IoF chair, said that winning the award was an immensely proud moment for him:
“I am passionate about the role that fundraising plays in sustaining the essential work that charities do, and it was a particular pleasure to receive the award from the IoF.”
So now is the time to put forward the fundraising campaigns, teams, individuals or organisations that have inspired you for the most prestigious awards in the fundraising sector. We very much look forward to receiving your nominations and hearing about your fundraising successes.
Ruth Moore is head of training and events at the Institute of Fundraising
This article first appeared in The Fundraiser magazine, Issue 26, February 2013
