In this Q&A blog, Claire McMinn, a member of the West Midlands regional group committee speaks about her experience of being a committee member and the benefits both personally and professionally.
I’m Claire, I’m on the West Midlands regional group committee, and I currently look after our social media presence. You will usually see me updating our Twitter feed & keeping things updated for the group on the Chartered Institute website.
I decided to join after attending a number of the West Midlands Committee First (now Second) Thursday sessions. I wanted to give back something to the region having gained so much and being a passionate fundraiser, I also wanted the chance to learn more about other charities in the sector and within our region.
Being a part of the West Midlands Committee has enabled me to meet, connect and work with fundraisers from across the sector – to learn, develop and also highlight the group and its events to my own network. Being part of the committee has enabled me to learn, develop and grow and work alongside some incredible fundraisers in the region and make new friends.
Our committee organises Second Thursday sessions every month (apart from August and December) which are sessions with fellow fundraisers to learn from each other and expand their knowledge within the charity sector. It’s helped many fundraisers in the region, from those who have just started, to those who are more established in their careers - I am always being inspired by the sessions and learning something new. We’re currently making plans for 2023 and as we’ve had more in person sessions in 2022, I’m really excited to see all we achieve and bring back (we have big plans) in the year ahead.
Being a part of the group committee has enabled me to get to know some of the most fantastic fundraisers within our region and has enabled me to gain more skills, and find out more about different areas of fundraising outside of the area(s) I have worked in.
There are so many to choose from. One of the higlights is how we kept going during the challenging times of 2020/21 and most recently, I think bringing back our conference in person with the East Midlands committee following a break due to COVID. It was brilliant to work together as a combined Midlands team and be able to provide a fantastic day of learning and networking fundraisers in the region and beyond.
The group has enabled me to feel less alone and I love the way when things are tough or if we have a question – we are there for each other. We’re a wonderful group of cheerleaders and supporters of each other, and it means that you never feel alone. Most of all, we’re fundraisers and charity professionals helping fundraisers and fellow charity professionals and that is so special.