Fundraising Spotlight: West London Strings
West London Strings is a local orchestra that has raised money for us, and we wanted to highlight them and the great work they’ve done that helps us continue providing mental health support across our boroughs. We asked Sarah Henderson from the West London String to tell us a bit more about their work and why they chose to raise money for us.
Tell us a little about the West London Strings
West London Strings was formed in 2009. It is a very friendly amateur string orchestra which enjoys playing string music on Monday evenings. Musician, Susanna Wilson is our inspirational conductor. We also benefit from being led by a professional on the first violins, cellos, and violas. There are no auditions and all are welcome. Music is chosen to suit the membership and we work on a range of pieces. We hold two concerts a year.
If you are interested in joining us, or finding out more about us, go to our website at: westlondonstrings.org.uk
What made you choose HFEH Mind as your charity for fundraising?
We like to support, where possible, charities who support the local community where we rehearse and perform. We rehearse in St Mary’s church in Edith Road, West Kensington and perform at Barnes Methodist church, so charities based in Hammersmith and Fulham or West London work well for us. We had never supported a mental health charity before, so we thought that HFEH Mind would be ideal. We supported HFEH Mind at two events – our December 2022 concert and a fundraising quiz that we held in March 2023.
How was your fundraising experience?
Our fundraising experience with HFEH Mind was excellent. When I approached them in the first instance, they responded straight away. They were friendly and approachable, and agreed to speak at both the concert and the fundraising quiz. Having a representative of a charity speak at a fundraising event makes a huge difference. They sent us materials to display at both events, and were professional and supportive at all times. They were an excellent charity to engage with for our fundraising activities.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking about starting fundraising for the first time?
Go for it! If you have an idea for a fundraising opportunity whether it be performing at a concert, hosting a quiz night, holding a cake sale, or taking part in a fun run or walk, just do it and approach the charity for resources and ideas. You’ll be empowered by the interest you generate and the sheer generosity of people who want to support your cause and make a difference.
How could we better support fundraisers in the future?
I honestly don’t think that there is anything further that you could do – just keep on supporting and engaging with your fundraising community!
Read more about fundraising for us, or learn about fundraising challenges you can join.
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Posted on: 2nd August 2023
