I’ve had various letters and emails from the Institute of Fundraising (IoF) telling me that they need new Trustees. I’ve sat and debated it with myself, discussed it with friends and thought long and hard about whether I would be willing to make that commitment.
Finally I decided I would send off my form. After all, it’s
not every day that you have the chance to really guide and shape what should,
arguably, be one of the most important organisations to fundraisers.
And the word ‘arguably’ is why I decided to take the plunge.
I may not get elected, but as with all things election related – if I don’t say
why I want it and be willing to put my money where my mouth is, I don’t feel I
have the right to complain if things aren’t done the way I want them!
I’m involved with the IoF in a variety of different ways. I
decided to join the Board of the National Convention two years ago as I feel
it’s absolutely vital for fundraisers to be offered top quality learning and
development, by peers and colleagues. I joined because I was frustrated seeing
agencies talk and not hearing enough from charities. So now I help develop the
direct marketing stream. And I’m happy that we now have more charities talking
about their fundraising and experiences.
Then I became involved with the Learning & Development
team, helping to create fundraising specific qualifications. After a lot of
hard work, we’ve now produced and run our first successful Certificate in
Direct Marketing. We’re taking bookings for the second, and will soon be
developing the Diploma.
I’m also involved now with the IoF London Committee. This is
a new area for me – but really exciting. Seeing how things are done on a
regional basis – and the passion and commitment that the committee has is
inspiring in itself!
When Mark Astarita was confirmed as the IoF Chair for
another year he said the following: “As someone who is passionate about the
profession of fundraising, I am absolutely delighted to have been asked to
chair the institute for another year.”
I realised that’s how I felt. I really am passionate
about fundraising and truly believe in developing the profession of
fundraising and ourselves as fundraisers. I really want to be a new face
on the Board and really feel I can offer the engagement and
representation that fundraisers across the sector need, and demand. I am
a fundraiser – I do it, day in and day out.
And anyone who knows me will know
that I will
always push the Institute to work hard to deliver what is best for us as fundraisers, in terms
of policy, training and advocacy.
And that’s why I decided to throw my hat in the ring and put
my money where my mouth is!
Danielle Atkinson
Head of Digital & Individual Giving at Merlin
Head of Digital & Individual Giving at Merlin
