Awards win for ‘relentless’ Forfar fundraiser

Gus Robb received the awards in front of fellow volunteers and Guide Dogs staff who came together to celebrate at the annual local volunteer awards held at the charity’s Forfar Regional Centre.

Group co-ordinator for the Forfar Fundraising Branch, he picked up awards in both the ‘Lead by Example’ and ‘Engage’ categories.

Gus began fundraising for the charity in 2021, with a five-year plan for the Forfar group.

One nomination read: “Gus has grabbed the fundraiser role and led with gusto. A small team at Forfar and surrounding areas has grown into a dynamic and active fundraising squad that supports each other at events from Perth up to Stonehaven. The leadership and vision have led to a big increase in funds and donations coming into the area branch and has invigorated the team."

Gus said: “I’m pleased to have received two awards and would like to thank all the Forfar fundraising team, as they make events happen. Giving something back to those that need support is what I enjoy. Guide dogs change lives.”

Andrea Williams, community fundraising relationship manager, said that the amount of money raised has almost doubled under Gus’s leadership.

She said: “Gus has built up the fundraising group mostly through his own contacts and the group’s fundraising has nearly doubled in the last year. He welcomes people on board and is very proactive. Gus is exceptionally good at engaging with people, whether it be the local businesses, sports clubs, or other departments in the Forfar training school.”

Volunteer Co-ordinator Allison Wines added: “Gus is relentless with fundraising efforts and supporting other fundraisers in their role, recruiting new volunteers into various fundraiser roles and developing their confidence in their abilities. Without Gus at the helm leading the group, the branch wouldn’t be nearly as successful.”

Anyone who would like to get involved can find out more by emailing [email protected].