Fundraising at Compton Care is anything but predictable. For our Community & Events Manager, every day brings new faces, new challenges, and new opportunities to support the people who go above and beyond to raise money for our vital services. It’s a role all about connection and creativity … and no two days ever quite look the same.

No such thing as “average”

Ask anyone in the fundraising world what a typical day looks like, and you’re likely to be met with a smile. “There is not an average day in fundraising at all,” she explains. “One day can be completely different to the next.”

Her team supports the brilliant individuals, groups, and organisations who choose to fundraise for Compton. At the same time, they deliver many of the charity’s flagship events. That means mornings can begin with something practical like walking the Walk for Compton route or finalising a risk assessment before everything changes with one call from reception. A supporter might drop in to talk about their fundraising, and the day suddenly shifts to meeting them, hearing their story, and helping them plan their next steps.

It’s fast‑paced, people‑focused, and endlessly varied. And it’s exactly what she loves.

From furlough to a fulfilling career

Emily’s journey with Compton Care began in an unexpected way. When she was placed on furlough during the Covid pandemic, she reached out to Compton’s fundraising team to see if there was anything she could do to help.

She started by supporting with event documentation and helping to plan a Covid‑safe version of Round the Wrekin. Then in 2021, after securing a place in the London Marathon through Compton, her connection to the charity deepened even further.

In January 2022, she officially joined the team as a Community & Events Fundraiser and by October that same year, she stepped into her current role as Community & Events Manager.

Leading with purpose

In her role, Emily leads the Community & Events team to ensure strong community engagement, safe and successful events, and dedicated support for fundraisers at every stage of their journey.

It’s work that blends operational planning and working directly with supporters and volunteers.

The best part: the people

What keeps her inspired every day? The fundraisers.

“I absolutely love my role at Compton,” she says. “Meeting and getting to know our fundraisers is incredibly special. Seeing them achieve what they sometimes think is impossible, pushing themselves out of their comfort zone and surpassing their targets – it’s just really special.”

Memories to look back on

One of the most memorable experiences of her time at Compton so far came during the recent Lord Bilston Challenge, an extraordinary four‑day event involving three national peak hikes and more than 300 miles of cycling.

Over 30 participants took part, supported by medics, logistics teams, and volunteers. She and colleagues drove vans and minibuses, ensuring the team were transported, equipped, and supported every step of the way.

“It was just amazing to be part of it,” she recalls. “Seeing what they put themselves through, from 4am starts to midnight finishes, was incredible. Long days, huge climbs, tired legs, blistered feet… but so much determination and camaraderie.”

Despite the physical and emotional exhaustion, the team pushed on with unshakeable spirit. And they did more than just complete the challenge – they smashed their fundraising target of £40,000.

“That challenge showed me what people are capable of when they come together,” she says. “It was an honour to support them.”