Hi I’m Sam from Essex, I’ve got two children and I’m part-time cabin crew. Which means I get to do some of my training runs in the sun in Barbados!

I’ve been running on & off for 8 years but I’ve been taking it seriously for the last 2 years – the 2026 London Marathon will be my first full marathon. I have run several half marathons, last year I ran LLHM and Royal Parks. This year I ran the Bath half & Great North Run in September and then Palma half in October. I’m really proud to be fundraising for blind and partially sighted children – I’m already half-way there in my fundraising.

Can you describe the event / fundraising initiative?

I organised a Christmas Raffle. I shared it on Facebook and Instagram, the WhatsApp groups I’m part of (family groups and kids football groups – there’s millions!) and with my colleagues. The prizes range from being worth £50 – £200. My dad spoke to his employer and they gave away a £200 voucher for the restaurant The Liberty in the Royal Exchange. My friend gave a Scentsy voucher (scented wax warmer). I bought some bottles of Champagne & I made a chocolate children’s hamper. I also had vouchers I had that I hadn’t used for M&S & Fortnum & Masons, so I added them to the raffle.

I organised the raffle by sharing that it was £2 a ticket or £5 strip (for 5 tickets), everyone has bought at least 1 strip! By November I’d raised £820 already, I originally had a £600 goal, so I’m really pleased and starting letting people know that I’m aiming for £1000. By 8 December it had raised £1185!

What’s your advice for other team members?

Get your company to sponsor you if you can. Don’t just ask for donations, organise something so your loved ones can win or take something from it.

I’m planning to host a quiz night and curry night in February or March – lots of small bits/events will all add up towards your target. I’d advise to get to know the quiz master for your local pub and ask them to help – we asked and he offered to do the charity quiz night for free.

You can follow my running journey on @run_fly_somemiles and reach out to chat!

Would you recommend it to others?

Yes definitely – I’m planning to do it again in Easter or for Mother’s Day.

Sam's social media ad showing the prizes
Sam's raffle poster

Well done to Sam who brought the festive spirit to her fundraiser! If you would like any support with your fundraising, drop us an email at fundraising@victa.org.uk.