Stella Buckingham is the Events Fundraising Manager at Rockinghorse.
We’re introducing you to the team here at Rockinghorse through a series of blogs. Find out a little bit more about the people behind our charity…
Did you know that we’re actually a small organisation with a team of just ten staff – five of whom work part time? We pride ourselves on working closely with local businesses, schools, community groups and individuals, who very kindly support us.
The Rockinghorse team consists of a fundraising and operations function. You can view a list of all the members of staff, over on our Meet the Team page.
In the latest of a series of blogs featuring the Rockinghorse team, meet Stella Buckingham, our Events Fundraising Manager.
Tell us more about your role…
“I look after the events here at Rockinghorse; organising and coordinating major fundraisers, such as the Ball. I also organise many other events throughout the year that attract local businesses and their staff, and events that appeal to friends, families and individuals. It’s great to be able to offer fun and engaging events to our supporters, whilst also raising much needed funds at the same time.”
Stella (pictured front left) with the Rockinghorse team and volunteers at the 2019 Rockinghorse Ball.
How long have you worked at Rockinghorse and why did you want to get involved?
“I joined Rockinghorse in December 2018, so I’ve recently celebrated my first year with the charity! I’d previously volunteered and supported Rockinghorse for 10 years prior to working here. Being Sussex born and bred, I have experienced the work of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital (the Alex) in Brighton, first-hand.
“Many friends and family have also experienced some of the other services we support, such as Chalkhill in Haywards Heath and Bluefin Ward in Worthing Hospital. I jumped at the chance of joining Rockinghorse when the opportunity came about – it’s amazing to be part of such a good team and help make even more of a difference.”
Do you have a personal connection to Rockinghorse?
“My daughter, Daisy, was admitted to Worthing Hospital back in August 2008. She was subsequently rushed to the Alex 10 days later, for an emergency operation and short stay there. Following Daisy’s procedure, we were then outpatients for a few more months until she was given the all clear. She’s now a fit, healthy, funny, smart and caring teenager, who has grown up knowing about Rockinghorse and why it’s important to support a charity close to your heart.”
Stella with Rockinghorse supporter, Sam Thomas, at our 2019 Charity Golf Day.
What is the best part of your job?
“For me personally, seeing an event take place, after so much planning and hard work, is so rewarding. It’s great to see our events being enjoyed by so many people, all helping to raise money for the cause. We always love getting together as a team, joined by our wonderful volunteers.
“Having experienced the work of Rockinghorse, both as a parent and an employee, there is no better motivation than knowing how the funds we raise make a huge difference. On a daily basis, we are having an impact on young people’s lives, thanks to the partnerships we have with local businesses, community groups, and individuals across Sussex. Through the events we put on, we are able to raise much needed funds for children in our county.”
What’s been your proudest moment to date?
“Every successful event makes me proud. Visiting the centres and services we support, meeting the staff and hearing about the difference we’re making to them, also makes me very proud. When our CEO speaks to guests at our events, it really brings home just how much of an impact we’re making.”
Stella with Daley Thompson and Rockinghorse’s Terrina Barnes, at the Best of British event in Brighton.
Have you taken part in any challenge events for Rockinghorse?
“During the 10 years before I worked for Rockinghorse, I took part in many challenge-led fundraisers. They included a trek around Iceland, a ‘Stilettos on Wheels’ cycle race, The Nightrider (a night-time 100k bike ride around London), Run 5.30, as well as many other smaller fundraising events. Now I get to organise events for others to enjoy, too!”
Tell us a little more about you!
“I live in Angmering in West Sussex, and as I mentioned earlier on in the blog, I have a 14-year-old daughter called Daisy. My parents, brother and two nieces are all local to me, so we see quite a lot of each other.
“I enjoy going out with friends, travelling to see friends out of the area, trips away, holidays and travel in general. I love attending Rockinghorse events as well as the events we are beneficiary of. With my daughter’s social life on top of that, it all makes for a very busy but amazing time outside of work.
“When I’m not doing all of these things, I will try to make time for the gym or make time for more boring jobs, such as cleaning out our guinea pig, Treacle’s house and doing my own housework!”
If you would like to be kept up-to-date with the latest Rockinghorse events, please get in touch with Stella by calling 01273 330044 or email stella@rockinghorse.org.uk.
