The Walton Firs Foundation’s charitable mission is to enable young people’s personal development and social inclusion, through the provision of outdoor education, vocational training, and volunteering programmes.
The Patron will:
• Serve as an ambassador for the Walton Firs Foundation, championing the charity’s mission to enable young people’s personal and social development through their engagement in outdoor learning and adventure.
• Work to raise awareness, attract funding and in-kind support from third parties, and to enhance the Foundation’s impact by leveraging their influence, networks and public platform.
• Maintain executive oversight of the strategic, operational and financial management of the Foundation by its board of trustees / directors and senior employees, in accordance with The Charities Act 2011, The Charities (Protection and Social Investment) Act 2016, and The Trustee Act 2000.
Key Responsibilities:
• Advocacy and Awareness: To promote the benefits of outdoor education and the Foundation’s initiatives to the public, policymakers, educators, and potential supporters.
• Fundraising Support: To assist in the securing of donations, sponsorships, and grants by engaging with corporate partners, philanthropists, and funding bodies.
• Public Engagement: To represent the charity at key events, outdoor education programmes, and promotional activities to enhance its profile and credibility.
• Networking and Influence: To introduce the charity to influential individuals, businesses, and organisations that could support its work.
• Media and Communications: To participate in media interviews, social media campaigns, and promotional materials to champion the charitable activities of the Foundation.
• Strategic Advice: To offer insights and guidance to the charity’s leadership on opportunities for growth, partnerships, and programme development.
• Engagement and Advocacy: To serve as an inspiring figure to young people, volunteers, staff, and supporters, reinforcing the charity’s impact and importance.
What skills do I need?
Essential Qualities and Experience:
• A passion for, or experience of, outdoor education, children and youth work, formal education, or environmental stewardship
• A recognised public profile or influence within relevant sectors (e.g., education, adventure sports, conservation, business, media, politics, or philanthropy)
• Excellent communication and public-speaking skills
• A willingness to advocate for the Foundation’s charitable mission
• An extensive network of contacts who could support the charity’s fundraising and awareness goals
• Experience or involvement with wider charities, outdoor education, or youth development programmes (desirable but not essential)
• Integrity, commitment, and a genuine belief in the transformative power of outdoor learning for young people
When do I need to be available?
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Details
Foundation patrons are appointed for a term of four years, renewable subject to board approval.
• Attend six-monthly patrons’ meetings, and the Foundation’s annual general meeting
• Attend key charity events, youth programmes, and fundraising initiatives where possible
• Actively promote the charity’s work and the benefits of outdoor education
• Support social media and media engagement efforts to amplify the Foundation’s charitable aims
• Facilitate connections and networks with potential supporters, sponsors, and policymakers
• Serve as a role model for young people, inspiring them to engage with adventure, the natural environment, and personal development
