Hello! For those of you who haven’t met me, I’m Isla and I’m a recent university graduate stepping into the world of charity work. Last month, I started my first full-time role, joining Toybox as the Graduate Marketing and Fundraising Officer. Although I worked part-time throughout university, stepping into an office environment is a whole new experience. I’ll admit that seeing my very own desk was a surprisingly exciting moment!
This past month has been a whirlwind of learning, and I’m excited to share a glimpse into my experience so far.
Why Toybox?
The question of why I chose to work at Toybox, is an easy one to answer. Having studied global development at university, I have long been passionate about working in a space where I can contribute to meaningful change. When I discovered Toybox and its mission to support street-connected children, I was immediately drawn in. Toybox’s child-centred, locally-led approach resonated deeply with my values. I especially appreciate that the focus is not just on helping, but on empowering children to shape their own futures. When you read through the children’s stories on the website, it’s impossible to not want to get involved!
Stretching Beyond the Job Description
When I was asked to write this piece, I was racking my brain trying to decide what to talk about. So, I thought I would share one of the most unexpected (but fun) experiences at Toybox so far: a midday team pilates session led by the CEO (yes, you read that correctly!).
Coming into this role, I knew Toybox cared about wellbeing, even so I didn’t expect to be doing an impromptu pilates session with Lynne, the CEO, by week three. But it’s not as out there as you might think. Working in the charity sector, especially on such a heavy issue as children living and working on the streets, can be emotionally challenging. People generally come into the charity sector because they are empathetic and want to contribute to change. So, let’s be honest, spending your working days reading and writing about vulnerable children facing hunger, homelessness and poverty can be difficult. That’s why it is so important to proactively look after our mental health and morale. The midday pilates served as a fabulous way of connecting as a team, stretching out the tension of sitting at a desk all day, and taking a mindful pause.
What this experience demonstrated to me, is that Toybox truly embraces the idea that you can’t pour from an empty cup. From wellbeing days and flexible working hours to pilates breaks, staff wellbeing is woven into Toybox’s culture. The proactive approach to wellbeing means it’s no surprise that many team members have been with Toybox for almost a decade bringing with them a wealth of experience and continuity to Toybox’s work.
What Toybox demonstrates, is that even for a relatively small charity, wellbeing at work can be prioritised. It is through prioritising staff wellbeing that the team can sustainably bring their best to work. As someone new to the charity world, this approach to wellbeing has been a welcome surprise that I will carry forward with me.
Reflections From The Month
It’s only been a month, but I can say that I am loving my experience at Toybox. The Toybox team have been super welcoming and it’s great to feel part of the team already. I’m learning a lot about marketing and fundraising, and it’s been really interesting to see how much goes on behind the scenes with charity work. Having said that, I will regularly be writing blogs for Toybox, so stay tuned to find out more about the behind the scenes of Toybox’s work.
With the Toybox Christmas appeal now in full swing, I’m excited to see what the next few months will bring!
Read my December blog here
