Celebrating the Fund's award-winning fundraiser this Volunteers' Week

For Volunteers' Week this 1-7 June, we are shining a spotlight on Julie Corbett, a determined, successful, and committed volunteer fundraiser for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

Volunteers' Week is an annual celebration of the contribution millions of people make across the UK through volunteering in their communities.

Julie has been volunteering for the Fund since 2019 in Northern Ireland. Julie has volunteered at a whole range of events for the Fund including the Air Show, the Ulster 5k, the ‘Elf’ Run, Armed Forces Day, bucket collections at local football grounds, as well as primary school assemblies and competitions.

The Elf run is Julie's favourite event to organise. It is held on the second Sunday in December, marking the beginning of the festive season. The event provides refreshments and musical entertainment for all finishers and Santa comes along too. The Fund is the chosen charity for Julie’s husband Rob’s golf club for 2023 of which he is the current Captain. 

Julie said: "I love volunteering for the Fund, I have heard so many amazing stories from veterans and their families whilst collecting donations. I run a very small, but highly dedicated team. They generously travel the length of Northern Ireland with me, stand all day collecting and give their time willingly. Every year our team grows a little."

She continued: "I have made some amazing friends along the way too. Volunteering helps me to feel that I can and do make a difference to people’s lives. When we hear or read a story of how the Fund has provided support, I know in some small way we have contributed to that."

Julie won the 'Above and Beyond' award this year at Fund's annual awards. Julie was commended for her fundraising efforts and for making 'a considerable difference to the Fund's reputation in Northern Ireland by applying her professional and conscientious approach'.

Julie said: "I was very surprised and delighted to have won the Volunteer of the Year Award. It is such an honour. Although it was given to me, the award is really for everyone who helps, attends, or supports us here in Northern Ireland. We really are a close-knit team."

Air Vice-Marshal Chris Elliot, Chief Executive at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: "The awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise all of the great work that allows us to continue supporting RAF veterans, serving personnel and their families and making a real improvement to their lives. Many congratulations to all this year's winners including Julie Corbett for her inspirational enthusiasm, creativity, and generosity, which has been wonderful to see. From everyone at the RAF Benevolent Fund – thank you."