Band of Builders’ (BoB) annual charity fundraising ball and auction has raised more than £25,000 for the charity which helps people in the construction industry who are battling illness or injury by making a life-changing difference to them and their families.
Nearly 400 people attended the themed A Night at the Oscars Ball, which was held in the Holte Suite at the home of the Premier League football club Aston Villa in Birmingham.
The annual event was attended by a mix of the charity’s volunteers, supporters, corporate sponsors, well-wishers and beneficiaries, as well as businesses from across the construction industry, who all came together not only to enjoy an evening that celebrated the charity’s achievements but also to raise much-needed funds.
Befitting the Hollywood theme, the paparazzi were ‘papping’ guests as they arrived at the venue, before a drinks reception, followed by a three-course meal, vintage Hollywood-themed entertainment, a live auction, a silent auction and a raffle.
The host for the evening was comedian Dominic Holland – who started the evening with a routine about what it’s like being the father of Hollywood superstar Tom Holland, who recently played Spider-Man in the blockbuster movie. Dominic also hosted the charity auction and the awards section of the evening, which recognised the achievements of those who have gone above and beyond to support the charity.
Awards
A key part of the annual ball is the opportunity to recognise outstanding achievements with awards. Seven categories of awards were given out on the night:
· Individual Fundraiser of the Year 2024 (sponsored by Okarno) – which was won by Warren Marshall from Talasey. He is always among the first people to put their hand up and get involved in any way they can for BoB.
· Team Fundraiser of the Year 2024 (sponsored by The Installer Show) – which was won by Tradesmen to Forex Traders for not only completing two fundraising challenges in 2024 but also showing tremendous passion for raising awareness of the mental health challenges in construction.
· Corporate Fundraiser of the Year 2024 (sponsored by Wilson Brook Consulting) – which was won by Jewson for hosting golf days and darts evenings and organising the incredible Dragon Boat Race – which saw over 400 attendees and 25 teams competing this year.
· Outstanding Contribution to Projects 2024 (sponsored by CT1) – which was won by volunteer Matt O’Brien for notching up six projects (with one as project lead). Matt has been instrumental in site visits and in planning and delivering a number of successful projects.
· Community Impact 2024 (sponsored by Tarmac Blue Circle) – which was won by Hays Recruitment for taking BoB’s mental health mission on the road and reaching hundreds of building sites and thousands of construction workers.
· Chairman’s Award 2024 – which was won by Tracey Healey for supporting virtually every project, as well as fundraising and providing a huge amount of support behind the scenes.
· The Keith Ellick Award for Special Recognition 2024 (sponsored by DeWalt) – which was won by volunteer Kevin Choat. The award was chosen by past recipients and recognised Kevin’s long-term, unwavering commitment to the BoB cause, including his dedication and efforts that have shaped the charity’s journey.
BoB thanks supportive businesses
As part of the festivities, CEO Gavin Crane took the opportunity to thank all those who attended, which included volunteers, supporters, corporate sponsors, well-wishers and beneficiaries.
He also thanked all the businesses that support BoB, including Jewson, DeWalt, Talasey, CT1, Blip, Tarmac Blue Circle, On the Tools, Advent, Toolbank, Quinn Training, SIG Roofing, Okarno, Phillips Screw Company, Red Gorilla, Hays Recruitment, Faithfull Tools, Triton, A&I Group, Wilson Brook Consulting and The Installer Show.
Gavin told them: “You’ve not only believed in our vision but you’ve also actively helped us turn it into reality. Thank you for standing with us and helping us reach new heights.”
BoB Chairman of Trustees Dave Seal took the opportunity to thank the volunteers who support the charity day in and day out. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude for everything they do for BoB.
He also singled out the team of volunteers and staff who staged the event, including Louise Stevenson, Richard Croft and Demi Munn.
Dave reflected: “I’m always blown away by the dedication, commitment and tenacity shown to this amazing charity by so many people. We collectively continue to make a significant difference to people’s lives.”
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