Fundraising Officer

Avon & Somerset Search and Rescue (ASSAR) is a volunteer-run charity that provides a life-saving service free of charge via Avon & Somerset Police.  We rely fully on public generosity and diverse fundraising efforts to cover their significant operational costs, which include vehicles, equipment, training.

Here is a breakdown of our main fundraising methods used:

1. Direct Donations and Sponsorships

This is the most direct and crucial source of income.

  • Public Donations: Individuals and groups contribute directly via online platforms (like PayPal or via our own website), bank transfers, or cheques. The team actively promotes the use of Gift Aid for UK taxpayers, which allows us to reclaim an extra 25% on the donation from the government.
  • Collection Boxes: We have numerous small collection boxes in outdoor leisure shops, local shops, pubs, cafes, and other businesses in the area we serve.
  • Corporate and Individual Sponsorship: Local businesses help provide sponsorship, either for the team’s general running costs, specific equipment purchases (e.g., a new vehicle or specialised gear), or by sponsoring a day of operations.
  • Legacies and In-Memory Gifts: People can leave a donation to our team in their will (a legacy) or ask for donations to the team in lieu of flowers/gifts for a funeral, wedding, or birthday celebration.

2. Organised Fundraising Events

ASSAR Team often hosts and participates in various events which helps raise funds such as:-

  • Challenge Events
  • Local Community Events
  • Raffles and Auctions: Holding prize draws or auctions, often with prizes donated by local businesses.
  • Social Gatherings: Organising social events like bingo nights, ceilidhs, or pub quizzes.
  • Open Days: Hosting open days at key locations such as Cheddar Gorge where visitors can learn about the work and equipment, encouraging on-the-spot donations.
  • Merchandise Sales: Selling branded items or running small sales (e.g., selling homemade goods like cakes).

3. Services and Expertise

ASSAR can leverage their unique skills and resources to generate funds:

  • Safety/Marshalling Services: Providing rescue safety cover or marshals for local trail races, mountain biking events and other outdoor events in the Avon & Somerset area, for which we receive a fee or donation.
  • Presentations and Training: Team members offer talks, lectures, or demonstrations to schools, clubs, and organisations, providing insight into their operations and equipment. A donation is usually requested for these informative sessions.

The aggregate of all these fundraising activities is what keeps ASSAR operational and able to support emergency services and help save lives.

Donate

You can make direct donations to ASSAR via

PayPal PayPal Donation