Being a trustee for a cause that matters
At Family Fund, we’re governed by a board of trustees who donate their knowledge, skills and expertise to help us improve the lives of families raising disabled and seriously ill children.
This Trustees’ Week, we spoke to two of our fantastic trustees, Dave Cook and Emma Pinnock, about what brought them to Family Fund and how they’re helping make a difference.
Using experience to make a difference
Dave, a digital, technological and data specialist with over three decades of experience, joined our Board of Trustees earlier this year. He “wanted to find a way to use my experience to make a difference to people’s lives.” Becoming a trustee gave him that opportunity.
“What drew me to Family Fund was its mission. The scale and impact of that work is incredible, and being part of a team so deeply committed to improving lives across the UK is both humbling and motivating.
“As a newer trustee, I’m still learning how to contribute most effectively, but I’ve already seen how important diverse perspectives are around the board table. I focus on supporting the charity through advice and guidance on technology, systems and innovation – exploring how new tools and smarter processes can help Family Fund reach even more families and work even more efficiently.”
The purpose of being a trustee
“Volunteering as a trustee has also given me a broader understanding of the challenges facing charities today, and the creativity, care and collaboration that go into overcoming them. It’s a privilege to see the dedication of the Family Fund team first-hand and to play a small part in helping them achieve their goals.
“For me, being a trustee is about service, lending your skills and energy to a cause bigger than yourself. I’m proud to be part of a team that embodies compassion, inclusion and innovation, and I look forward to continuing to learn, contribute and help shape Family Fund’s future.”
Understanding Family Fund’s impact
For Emma, who has worked in education for 20 years, being a trustee at Family Fund “connects deeply to both my personal and professional journey.”
“As the mother of a unique child, I understand the real impact Family Fund has in the disability community. I know the difference that practical support can make for a family navigating daily challenges.
“I make no apologies for often recalling one moment that continues to ground me: being in a family’s home when a washing machine arrived through Family Fund’s support. The mood in the room lifted instantly. The stress eased and hope quietly returned. That simple moment reminded me of the profound change this charity brings to families’ lives.
“Professionally, as a Special Educational Needs consultant, I also see every day how vital it is to empower families and ensure their children have what they need to thrive. Family Fund’s work mirrors those same values; dignity, inclusion, and opportunity. That’s why it means so much to be part of the trustee team.”
Focus on the families
“As a board, we focus on strategy, growth, and governance, but I believe we must always stay anchored in the why: the families we serve. Being part of Family Fund during a time of reflection and growth has been incredibly rewarding, and I’ve witnessed first-hand the dedication, compassion, and excellence of the team.
“Volunteering as a trustee has given me the chance to contribute my lived experience and professional knowledge to something truly meaningful. I’m proud to celebrate the incredible impact Family Fund continues to have and to play even a small part in helping families feel seen, supported, and hopeful.”