Berkeley Homes Oxford and Chiltern Fun Day

By Gemma Case

After being appointed as a Foundation Rep back in January this year, I was given the task of organising a fundraiser to support our designated charity, Helen and Douglas House. After visiting Helen and Douglas House and seeing the wonderful job that they all do and the environment they have created for their families, I wanted to give them an extraordinary day.

I wanted the whole of our region to be involved, and came up with the idea of holding a tournament, whereby we could involve those companies we work very closely with as well as our staff. Having such fun, competitive personalities within our business, I knew we could create a day that we would all remember.

In addition to the tournament, I wanted to also provide something for our families to enjoy whilst their partners were being occupied competing to be the 'best of the best'. I organised for more additional 'family fun day' activities, including bouncy castles, bucking bronco, human table football, fairground stalls and sheep dog handling. Alongside these were a drinks marquee and stage where 4 bands played. These bands all agreed to donate their time to play and support this wonderful and worthwhile cause. My aim was to provide something for everyone to enjoy on the day.

The support we have received from our contractors, suppliers and members of staff has been phenomenal. Not only did we receive sponsorships, donations and support on the day, we also received an incredible amount of 'time and talent' from individuals - from staff volunteering to contractors donating their services to help make our day a success.

The teams were extremely competitive and really got into the spirit of the day. They all turned up with their own team t-shirts and embraced the challenges that the tournament presented including inflatables, costumes, water and foam. Helen and Douglas House were invited to enjoy the day with us and also compete in a team. They were amazing! Families of Helen and Douglas House also attended and enjoyed the activities. Tina Bough, a mother from Helen and Douglas House, also gave a speech about her first hand experience of their work, which was extremely moving and brought home how incredible and important this charity really is and how much they need our support.

Organising this event has been the biggest challenge in my career so far. I have learnt a great deal, not only about event management but also about myself. I learnt not only what I am good at and not so good at but also what I am able to achieve. It has been an absolutely amazing experience and an incredible opportunity and I am thrilled that we were able to raise £26,675.66 for Helen and Douglas House.

"It has been an absolutely amazing experience and an incredible opportunity and I am thrilled that we were able to raise £26,675.66 for Helen and Douglas House."