Meet Chris and Fran: The father-daughter duo supporting Shout
We caught up with father-daughter duo Chris and Fran to hear how they support Shout in their own ways, what inspired them to get involved, and what they've learned from each other along the way.
How do you both support Shout, and how does it make a difference?
Fran: I recently ran the Paris Marathon for Shout and raised over £1,200. As a fundraiser, my bit is easy; £10 funds a conversation, and £250 trains a new volunteer. It’s immediately obvious what my contribution has given Shout, even if it is just a fraction of what is needed.
Chris: As a volunteer I feel I am doing something important with a purpose of giving support and help to anyone who needs it. I am lucky to have a daughter who is my biggest supporter.
Testimonials
I love that we are doing things together and can encourage each other and give each other space to talk about something we have in common. How wonderful is that?
ChrisWhat inspired you both to get involved and support Shout?
Fran: My dad. The way he selflessly gives his time and energy inspired me. He always says I should volunteer, and I should be a counsellor. I don’t have the mettle for it, but he inspired me to get involved and help in ways I can.
Chris: I completed a Mental Health First Aid course with an inspiring tutor who left me feeling I could do more. Shout fits completely with my work and life balance. On talking with Fran she gave me huge encouragement and therefore the confidence to step in and help. That was 5 years ago!
What have you seen each other gain from being involved?
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I think Dad has found his calling. He’s always helped people – in career and personal life. But volunteering for Shout has given him a real spark. Something special.
Fran
Chris: I have seen Fran have determination and resilience in her running, a common interest and passion having completed a marathon together a while ago.
I am so proud of Fran’s determination and strength of conviction which led to a great fundraising total, making a huge difference to so many people.
What would you say to someone else who is thinking about getting involved / thinking about how they can support Shout and Mental Health Innovations?
Fran: I'd say do it! It's such an honour to be a part of the Shout fundraising community. Shout are so supportive and there's nothing quite like the buzz you get from seeing that fundraising target tick up.
Chris: Joining a great community like Shout and MHI has been a huge part of me feeling valued and valuable. The flexibility to help in many ways makes it easy to be part of something bigger that makes a huge difference to so many people. It can be as much or as little as works for you and you will meet some great people in your journey.
