We’re introducing you to the team here at Rockinghorse. 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 Terrina Barnes, our Corporate Fundraising Manager…
What does a Corporate Fundraising Manager do?
Terrina develops and maintains relationships with businesses who support Rockinghorse, as well as those who have shown an interest in supporting our charity.
She visits businesses to present to staff and engage them in ideas as to how they can work with us. Many companies choose to adopt us as their Charity of the Year and Terrina works with them to explore fundraising options and initiatives.
Within the role, Terrina attends many networking groups in Brighton and across Sussex, working to raise awareness of our cause. She also organises and attends many business-led events in the county.
Donations from businesses make up a large part of our income and help to fund the vital projects we support. Find out how you can support us in your place or work, by clicking here.
How long has Terrina worked at Rockinghorse and why did she want to get involved?
Terrina has been at Rockinghorse almost two years; since January 2018 and has a background in corporate fundraising.
She says, “I wanted to work with a small, well respected charity to make a difference to local children and their families. Being able to work with so many different projects across the county, really does make a big difference to the most poorly and disadvantaged children.”
“I have family members and friends who have had children in the Trevor Mann Baby Unit and also received treatment at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital. Both units that we’re very proud to support.”
What do you enjoy the most about your job?
Terrina says, “Coming from a corporate background, I love working with businesses and meeting new people. I am so passionate about our charity and enjoy raising more awareness of the fantastic work that Rockinghorse does. It is a real privilege to work with many wonderful supporters.”
What is your proudest moment at Rockinghorse to date?
“Seeing the benefits of our work for the children and projects that we support is the motivation behind what we do.” Terrina recalls, “The visit I had to Chalkhill Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit really opened my eyes to mental illness in young people. I am so proud that we support such a vital service.
“The Christmas party we fund each year for outpatients of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital, stands out for me. It’s lovely to see the children enjoying themselves, having fun and a well-deserved break from any ongoing treatment.
“I feel so lucky to be part of an amazing team, who all work together and are so passionate about the cause. We work in partnership as the Rockinghorse family to achieve the same goals and successes.”
Have you taken part in a challenge event for Rockinghorse, or organised your own fundraiser?
“My eldest daughter is a real thrill-seeker”, Terrina says. “In June this year, she took part in the iDrop event for Rockinghorse, when she abseiled 450 feet from the top the of the British Airways i360. In addition to that, she’s also completed a skydive!
“As part of her sponsorship, I helped her raise as much money as possible. Rather than directly asking people for money, we organised a quiz night, virtual race night and even a car boot sale to raise funds.”
Tell us a little more about you…
Terrina says, “I spent 20 years working for BT before moving into the charity sector. I live in Worthing and have two daughters, aged 18 and 23. I am a qualified trampolining judge and attend many competitions with my youngest daughter. She competes for her club Sussex Martlets as well as the South East region.”
If you own or work for a business that would like to support Rockinghorse, then we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch on 01273 330044 or email terrina@rockinghorse.org.uk.