Michelle’s Meat Raffle!

Hi, I’m Michelle. I’m a working mum with children, based in Essex. I ran in 2021 and am back to run 2026, five years later as I have unfinished business – I’m going for sub four hours and to have that marathon high. I’m running in support of my friend Emma, her niece was supported by VICTA when she was at college.

Can you describe the fundraising initiative?

I organised a meat raffle for my colleagues, friends and family and shared it on social media. My dad is a butcher so he provided the meat at cost price. From the raffle three people won a rib of beef, a turkey or a pork loin. I set the maximum delivery at 15 miles from Brentford and let them know I would deliver within a week of the winners being announced.

I did it because my husband went to a meat raffle for a BBQ in Australia. But with the weather here – I decided to do it for a roast dinner instead.

How much did you raise?

The meat raffle raised £390, it was £300 until a few days before the winners were announced.

What surprised you?

It’s step closer to the £2,250 goal.

Would you do organise this type of event again?

Maybe in the Spring – weather dependant! I’m organising a UV Adult Disco in the Spring on 14 March. I went to a farm event – the mums enjoyed it more than the kids, playing music from the 90s. I have the DJ booked, venue waived their fee and halved the price of their bar staff. My husband is going to organise a golf day with a raffle too.

What’s your advice for other team members?

Training wise – go to the physio ‘pre-hab’, it’s better to do it now than when you’re injured. I went to the physio to see if I have any weaknesses. It’s so important to strengthen your legs at the gym, I got injured in 2021 three weeks before the race, my hip flexor was injured because I didn’t train my legs at the gym as I thought it would be best to give them a rest because I was running. The second half of the race was painful but now I’m a lot stronger.

Would you recommend it to others?

Know your audience – if you know your butcher and have meat-lovers it’s a great fundraising idea. I think it would work best in the Summer for a BBQ!