Event Fundraising Volunteer

Event Fundraising Volunteer

Help at events and connect with our supporters!

At Turning Tides we know that anyone’s life can spiral into homelessness. We bring together compassionate individuals and organisations to transform the lives of people in our local community and change perceptions of homelessness.

We provide a warm safe space to; listen to anyone who comes to us for help. Local people experiencing homelessness are supported and empowered to become confident and find the strength and belief in themselves to create a brighter future.

Together we can make a difference and end homelessness where you live.

Location 

Locations will vary within our local communities in Worthing, Littlehampton, Shoreham, Horsham and Mid Sussex.

A bit about the role:

The Fundraising team are looking for enthusiastic individuals to join the Event Volunteer team to support us at fundraising events in the community throughout the year.

As an event volunteer you will be part of team that will cover events across the year – you could volunteer at as many as you would like.

You will volunteer alongside members of our fundraising team who are passionate about ensuring our visitors and supporters have an enjoyable and worthwhile experience. You will help on our information stand at community events and at our fundraising events and challenges.

You will help us to connect with existing and new supporters, and to be able to talk confidently and passionately about the work of the charity.

Whether it is hours or days, the time you give really will make a difference.

We wish to be better known in our local communities. To help this we attend community stalls and events organised by other organisations and also run our own events (currently restricted due to COVID).

We need people who are friends and supporters of Turning Tides and who can be the face of our Charity.

This vital role helps us to reach new people and inspire others to support our work.

What will I be doing? We need you to help promote the work we do and sign up new supporters to events and to our mailing list.

We attend and host a variety of events so the role could involve:

• Taking donations using our collection tins or using our cashless tap-and-go terminals and iPads for online donations. Training and support will be given for this.
• We aim to make the stand as interactive as possible so you may be asked to take part in some simple activities such as a raffle or quiz (Covid guidance permitting).
• Some events can be more involved, where we sell merchandise and need stewards.
• Helping with setting up and taking down the exhibition stand/display would be appreciated.
• We are also seeking help with the distribution of promotional materials and putting up and taking down banners in key locations at various times throughout the year, to promote our current appeals and events.

It is Turning Tides’ hope and expectation that as a volunteer you will:

• be inclusive and welcoming
• communicate professionally with the contacts you make
• be flexible to the needs of the staff member on duty
• be consistent, reliable, trustworthy and honest
• be over 18 years of age
• be willing travel – driving licence would be helpful

Times & Commitment:

Flexible – ad hoc, various events throughout the year. These events are most likely to fall on a weekends.  For all day events, we can run shifts to suit your needs. You would be part of a Fundraising Events pool of volunteers and as dates are booked we will contact you to ask if you are available.

What Training will I receive?

Turning Tides offers volunteers training so your time volunteering is the best it can be, is as safe as possible, and of course adds value to your experience and to Turning Tides.

Every volunteer regardless of role will have their initial induction.  During this induction you be taken through a PowerPoint presentation and be issued with ‘Not Just a Volunteer’ handbook. The induction will cover Professional Boundaries, Safeguarding and Equality and Diversity and be a chance for you to ask any questions.

We'll provide ongoing support and everything you need to get started and you will be asked to attend a training session so you are comfortable and happy in your role.

Members of the fundraising team will be present to support you in your role and knowledge of the work that Turning Tides do will be shared.

You will get a T-shirt to wear too!

Training and support will be given regarding cash handling and online donations.

The health and safety of our volunteers and supporters are always our top priority. As the situation with COVID-19 evolves, we will ensure any fundraising you carry out is within current Government and Fundraising guidelines. We will support you in this so guidelines are met.

We need to ensure you are eligible to volunteer in the UK.  To do this we will ask to see documentation that proves your right to volunteer in the UK at your induction.  If you are unable to provide this documentation you will be unable to volunteer. If you have the right to work in the UK on a permanent basis you are also normally allowed to volunteer. If in doubt, please contact the Home Office.

All of Turning Tides’ roles require two character references. These references do not need to be employment references, however, we cannot accept references from family members.