As a PR agency, addressing the need for diversity and inclusion in our industry is essential. We all have a part to play, a message that is beautifully amplified by the Taylor Bennett Foundation; a charity that exists to encourage people from a black, Asian and minority ethnic background to pursue a career in comms. The challenge is, as a start-up business without big CSR budgets, we have to find other creative ways to pledge our support.

Use our own skillsets and contacts to help raise money for this important cause.

Hot on the heels of a yoga fundraiser at the start of the year, we hosted a Pub Quiz that was ticketed, with all funds going direct to the foundation.

We secured a private function room free of charge via a client; and pitched invites to key stakeholders and suppliers, as well as on social. This was amplified by the Taylor Bennett Foundation as well as the venue, all driving share of shout.

We secured further donations on the night with a raffle (seeking prizes from our contacts, no one was safe from our team of determined organisers!) which added a further £300 to our total raised.

Alongside this, we conducted a workshop for interns on the foundation’s programme, to give an insight into the industry. Many also attended our quiz, which acted as a brilliant networking event too.

The team secured 42 attendees and over 60 donations, which meant we beat our fundraising target of £300 and raised over £850. The funds raised will be put to a new education programme the Foundation is creating for young people. Of course, this is just a drop in the ocean and so we plan more activity in the future. We’d also encourage anyone wishing to support to visit www.taylorbennettfoundation.org.