Since 2013, as a company we have partnered with a number of charities, and have raised over £35,996.05 so far. This year we’re supporting Alzheimer’s Society, with the help of our community fundraiser. Meet Mussara and find out about the work she does for Alzheimer’s Society.

Can you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about Alzheimer’s Society?

My name is Mussara Gray and I have been a Community Fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Society for almost three years. When I started I looked after three counties and now I currently manage Essex.

In the three seconds it takes you to read this sentence, another person will have developed dementia worldwide. Dementia is now the leading cause of death in the UK and we want everyone to unite with us and beat dementia.

What is your role within the fundraising team?

My primary role is to deliver voluntary income through fundraising within the community – this involves supporting community corporates like Athona Recruitment, who are organising their own events to raise as much money as possible whilst having fun – after all the word FUNdraising has the word FUN in it!

What’s a typical working day like for you?

No day is the same, taking me from presenting webinars about our work to corporate offices across Essex, to delivering speeches at events, attending cheque presentations and helping to organise collections.

What do you love most about your role?

I am volunteer led and would not be able to deliver all I do without my trusted and loyal team of dedicated volunteers who are always ready and willing to assist me. The idea that the attention these fundraisers gain could be inspiring people to apply for medical jobs is truly gratifying.

Each and every one we support gains much more than just fundraising, they create dementia friendly communities across the UK through our Dementia Friends movement. This leaves a lasting change, empowering everyone to understand and challenge dementia in their communities. I am delighted that Athona Recruitment will be joining us in becoming dementia friendly.

What inspired you to be a community fundraiser?

My personal connection to Alzheimer’s Society comes through my father who passed away at the age of 89 a few years ago having been diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. I know first-hand how dementia touches all those who care for a loved one. Dementia robbed my father of the very essence that made him ‘him’.

Tell us something interesting about you!

I love travelling, with a mission to see 50 parts of the world before the age of 50 – this year I went on a road trip to California. I love all things vintage and retro and love driving my little MGB!

Final words from Mussara.

I am truly inspired and touched every day by our supporters who each have their own personal stories and reasons for supporting the Alzheimer’s Society. A huge thank you from me and all at Alzheimer’s Society for the support and awesome fundraising that Athona Recruitment have shown to date – here’s to an awesome rest of the year!

If you’d like to find out how you can fundraise for Alzheimer’s Society, visit their website here.

E: marketing@athona.com

T: 01277 217777