When Rachael Messer took on the role of special events manager at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice in Barnet she had no previous experience.
She has now been named a ‘rising star’ for her work at the Emma national charity awards, which spotlight charities that bring unforgettable events to life year after year.
“You wouldn’t think Rachael was new to fundraising,” Noah’s Ark events chief Luke Holmes said. “Her ‘can do’ attitude to do the best for the children and their families is a real inspiration, while bringing in donations and introducing our work to new supporters.”
Rachael began working for the hospice in 2019, arranging trips and outings for children and their families.
But the 42-year-old soon found herself helping to organise the charity’s annual flagship Winter Ball at the Dorchester Hotel. Last year’s ball alone raised almost £550,000.
She organized her first Noah’s Ark ‘golf day’ last summer, then created new events like ‘Glitz and Giving’ last September and ‘Question of Sport’ in April.
The charity provides palliative care to 350 children who face life-threatening or limiting illness as well as supporting their families.
It has annual running costs of £7 million, with only a fraction coming from the NHS.
Noah’s Ark takes referrals from the London boroughs of Barnet, Haringey, Camden, Islington and Enfield, as well as neighbouring Hertsmere.
