One top volunteer fundraiser will scoop a first class honour this year, the best volunteer fundraiser of the year award at the Institute of Fundraising’s National Awards on Monday 5th July. The awards ceremony is just for fundraisers and highlights the very best fundraising has to offer, providing inspiration and innovation in bucket loads!

On the shortlist this year are David Wood and Simon Painter; Tom Colborne and Scott Cunningham.

David Wood and Simon Painter are part of the Ragabonds, a group of former students who were part of RAG societies at university. They have helped with the running of charity events, including major collections such as the annual Hogmanay collection for charities KidsCan and Cancer Research UK.
Tom Colborne held the first annual football marathon for TackleAfrica in 2002. Since then the event has grown significantly and over the last five years has raised over £250,000 for the charity. Last year the marathon cost less than £8,000 to run and raised £120,000.
Guide dog owner Scott Cunningham and his dog Travis have walked over 1000 miles to raise funds for Guide Dogs. Since 2003, when Travistrek was set up, the duo have raised £85,000 which has been used to name and sponsor puppies that will go on to become fully-fledged guide dogs.
Watch this space to see who scoops the top accolade.
The Awards ceremony is part of the Institute of Fundraising’s National Convention, held at the Hilton London Metropole, Edgware Road from 5-7th July 2010.
During the three day event, professional fundraisers will be able to glean tips, learn new techniques from others, and pick the brains of experts. There will be many inspiring sessions on offer including a presentation by the dynamic founder of charity Kids Company, Camila Batmanghelidjh.
So, whether you call the biggest gathering of fundraisers outside of the USA a fleet, flock, or – perhaps, a flourish, there will be hundreds upon hundreds of fundraisers at this year’s National Convention.