Fundraising Academy kicks off!

Thursday marked the start of OnSide’s Fundraising Academy.  The Fundraising Academy is part of OnSide’s Talent Academy, which has been uniquely developed to offer employees across the network development opportunities, ensuring they can contribute to the best of their ability and benefit not only their own Youth Zone but also the whole network.

The Fundraising Academy has been expertly developed to equip those with fundraising responsibilities with the knowledge and skills to support the fundraising agenda.   It is a 3-month programme run by Jane Hogarth of Solid Management – who has herself a wealth of fundraising experience and our very own Head of Private Sector Development, Francine Healey.  Francine joined OnSide in 2014 and has since used all of her expertise to identify and build relationships, helping to secure vital funding which has been fundamental in the growth of OnSide Youth Zones.

The programme consists of training modules, coaching and mentoring. The modules include ensuring fundraising is in the DNA of the organisation, engaging potential donors, ‘making the ask’ and taking all communications from good to great, amongst others.  The programme creates an enduring network amongst the participants to share learnings and support each other through challenges.

Throughout the three-month programme, participants are also joined by guest speakers.  This cohort of the Fundraising Academy will be joined by Jon Hammond who has over 40 years’ experience in communications, and Neale Graham, a Board member of Chorley Youth Zone and a prolific business leader with a track record of scaling technology businesses spanning over 30 years.  Accolades include Ernst & Young “Entrepreneur of the Year”.

Thursday’s Fundraising Academy was brilliantly kicked off by the wonderful CEO of Wigan Youth Zone, Anthony Ashworth-Steen.  Anthony shared with the group his own positive experiences and challenges of fundraising, and how, with Francine’s superb support, he was able to adopt a fundraising mindset. This, in turn, led to a number of successes, leading to Patrons of Wigan Youth Zone being secured.  He shared his view and aim of the importance of creating a fundraising culture throughout Wigan Youth Zone.

It was a fantastic afternoon which the group thoroughly enjoyed!  We are all really looking forward to next week’s installment!

CLICK HERE to read more about OnSide’s Talent Academy.