Sophie Berry was a former employee of Felton Fundraising and she said it was her experience of working with them that inspired her to step inside a charity herself.
Here is what she had to say:
"Felton Fundraising is the reason I have a career in Norfolk’s voluntary sector, and I couldn’t be more grateful to Richard and Sarah for giving me that opportunity back in the early 2000s.
Growing up, I was constantly inspired by the career my mum built with Common Purpose, an incredible initiative she helped launch in Norfolk in the '90s. I’d hear stories about local charities making a difference and business leaders immersing themselves in community need - getting on the ‘frontline’ to see and feel what was really happening.
At the time, I had just finished sixth form and was working at UEA, alphabetising coursework. I knew I could contribute more to Norfolk than that(!), so I handed in my notice. With encouragement from my mum and Richard Ellis - who has always been a champion of investing in local communities - I was introduced to Richard Felton.
Richard took a chance on a young 20-something who knew she wanted to do something meaningful but wasn’t quite sure what that was. A quality I have always admired - he gave me a chance.
My first role was launching Raiseyourprofile.com, a mobile exhibition unit designed to promote small charities. It was my job to secure high-footfall locations and represent the charities being featured. One highlight was organising a homelessness-focused roadshow outside The Forum. We brought together ten charities and worked with The Prince’s Trust to showcase a young person’s live graffiti art, raising awareness in a fresh and engaging way.
Alongside that, I was learning the ropes of charitable trust fundraising - writing grant applications, getting behind the scenes of incredible local charities, and understanding the needs they were addressing in innovative ways.
Felton Fundraising inspired me to step inside a charity myself, and in 2005, I joined Nelson’s Journey, leading their marketing and fundraising for 15 years. Now, I find myself at Norfolk Community Foundation, where I’ve crafted and lead the Good for Good initiative - connecting businesses with Norfolk’s voluntary sector.
In many ways, I’ve come full circle.
I owe my career to Richard and Felton Fundraising, and I can’t imagine Norfolk’s voluntary sector without them. It’s an absolute privilege to be a small part of their story."
Sophie Berry
Corporate Giving Manager
Norfolk Community Foundation