Voluntary Sector Conference 2024
12th October 2024
Les Beaucamps High
9 – 3.15pm
For this year's conference we have curated our workshops to focus on four streams
· Strategy
· Innovation
· Fundraising
· Leadership
A downloadable program can be found here or alternatively please see below for workshop options only.
To book your ticket click here
Each of our sessions has one workshop for each stream. With sessions running concurrently, you may want to have more than one representative attend so your charity gets the most out of the event.
Our Keynote Speaker
Joe Saxton is a multifaceted professional involved in various roles, including consultant, researcher, trustee, writer, and blogger. He chairs the Association of Chairs and serves as the strategy lead trustee for RABI, while also running the website Heyheyjoe.info for nonprofit insights. Previously, he founded and led the research consultancy nfpSynergy until selling it in 2021, and has held leadership roles in several charities, including being chair of the Institute of Fundraising and Charity Comms. Saxton has been recognized for his influence in fundraising and communications, received a Lifetime Achievement award from the Institute of Fundraising, and is also an award-winning novelist and wildlife enthusiast.
Session One: Workshops (choose one)
Charity Strategy - Joe Saxton – Strategy
Joe Saxton is passionate about strategy and believes it’s central to the success of every effective organisation. In this session, Joe will explore how a clear, simple strategy can drive long-term sustainability, without the need for unnecessary complexity or jargon. He’ll cover the core components of an effective strategy, the process for developing one, and common pitfalls to avoid along the way.
How charities can harness AI (Artificial Intelligence) - Matt Thornton – Co-Founder Cortex Technologies Innovation
AI tools are developing at an unprecedented speed, offering transformative opportunities for organisations of all sizes. Staying up to date with these advancements is crucial, especially in an environment where volunteers and funding are harder to come by. The workshop explores how AI can empower organisations and will give practical insights into affordable AI tools and strategies.
Maximizing your message: #WithoutUs - Krista Osborne, Black Vanilla PR Agency - Leadership
This session will pick up on the #WithoutUs Campaign theme and provide practical tools and strategies to effectively communicate the impact of your organisation’s work. Participants will learn how to craft compelling narratives, use data to tell a story, and engage stakeholders in a meaningful way.
Adding value to your charity with corporate fundraising Julie Todd (PR Manager) &Chris Rowe (Associate) Skipton Community Fund – Fundraising
This workshop explores various fundraising streams available through corporate partnerships and how to tailor your approach for each. It covers what corporations seek when receiving funding requests, the specifics of employer-supported giving, and strategies to maximize these opportunities effectively.
Session Two: Workshops (choose one)
How to ask people for money - Joe Saxton – Fundraising
Our Keynotes speaker will share some strategies on how charities can effectively ask people for money, you will also get the opportunity to role play and test out these strategies.
Harness the power of Digital Marketing on a shoestring budget – George Bett MD Clicksmith - Innovation
In this session, participants will discover how to leverage digital marketing to effectively engage supporters and beneficiaries, even with limited resources. Through practical insights and low-cost tools, tips, and tricks, attendees will learn how to optimize their online efforts for maximum impact. By the end of the session, participants will leave with increased confidence in managing and enhancing their digital presence.
Leading with Confidence: thriving through uncertain times – Korinne Le Page, Thrive Training & Coaching - Leadership
Attendees will explore key qualities and strategies that define effective leadership, including vision, communication, and the ability to inspire and motivate others.
Diversifying your volunteer base - Kristin Dowling and a guest speaker - Strategy
This session will explore current trends in volunteering and the increasing need for organizations to diversify their volunteer base & practice.
Session Three: Workshop (choose one)
How to be a Charity Chair - Joe Saxton – Leadership
This workshop is designed to equip current and aspiring Charity Chairs with the skills and insights needed to lead their organization effectively. The role of the Chair is pivotal in setting the strategic direction, maintaining governance, and fostering a positive culture within the charity. Participant swill gain practical tips and guidance on how to manage their responsibilities, navigate challenges, and work collaboratively with the board, staff, and volunteers.
How to write a grant applications and report on impact - Jo Le Poidevin Executive Director Lloyds Bank Foundation / Sadie Siviter de Paucar SIF / Anna Le Page GCF – Fundraising
Participants will learn how to develop compelling grant proposals, ensure compliance with funder requirements, and demonstrate the impact of their projects through clear, well-structured reports.
Greener together: Empowering charities for a sustainable future - Rollo de Sausmarez – Sustainability Advisor Strategy
This workshop explores why charities are part of the solution for a greener future and focuses on practical strategies for making charities and their activities more environmentally sustainable. Participants will learn how to embed sustainability into their organization’s operations, fundraising efforts, and community engagement.
Current trends in the Event Industry – Guest Speaker – Innovation
In the charity sector, there has been a shift away from traditional gala dinners as organisations look for more innovative and engaging ways to fundraise and connect with a diverse group of supporters. This workshop will discuss some of the key current trends in the event industry for charities.