As part of our 40th anniversary, we’re sharing 40 stories of impact that have shaped LandAid. Today we’re shouting out our Patron’s Network, who help champion LandAid’s mission by engaging the industry’s most influential people.
The Patrons Network was developed by former LandAid Chair, Rob Bould, with the aim of asking the most senior players in the industry, and those who have been such a major part of its history and evolution, to come together with a special purpose.
Focused on advocacy, influence and engagement, the Network harnesses the experience, leadership and reach of its Patrons to champion LandAid’s mission across the sector. From opening doors to new partnerships to raising awareness of the impact we can achieve together, Patrons play a key role in building a collective movement for change across our industry.
Organised by LandAid’s National Partnership Manager Shelbie Walker and Deputy CEO and Director of Fundraising and Programmes, Alice Lamb, the Patrons Network now consists of over 85 passionate advocates. Current Chair of the Board Neil Slater has provided unwavering support to the group, allowing the network to develop successfully.
Former LandAid Chair, Rob Bould is the founder of our Patron Network. Being involved in LandAid since 2006 when former Chairman Mike Slade reached out, he has seen LandAid grow to make huge waves to help the industry develop a social movement for good. When he stepped down from his role as the Chair of our Board of Trustees, he could not simply depart, especially given all the valuable connections he had made in his role. And that’s how the network started: allowing LandAid to foster all the experience and expertise of the people at the top of the industry, who can help us make even greater connections.
“For anyone that has been actively involved in a not for profit organisation, stepping down is always with mixed emotions especially when you want to continue to make a contribution.
Equally you don’t want to deflect from the new team.
Former trustee, Suzanne Avery and I discussed the idea of a Patrons Group and we quickly appreciated that there were many who would like to continue to support but in a less formal way. Potential candidates ranged across the industry, from event supporters, sponsors, former Committee and Board members all could play a role and a target list of 25 to 30 soon grew exponentially.”
– Rob Bould, Former Chair of the Board, and LandAid Patron.
As we celebrate LandAid's 40th anniversary, it reminds me of how so many have collaborated over the years to bring an end to youth homelessness. I remember brainstorming with Rob Bould about a Patrons Group, a way for those of us who've been part of LandAid's journey to stay connected to it and to work together. It’s wonderful to see how it has grown and from a personal perspective, I’m so pleased to be part of it. Happy anniversary to all at LandAid, past and present!Suzanne Avery, LandAid Patron and former Board Member.
As we reflect on LandAid’s history for our 40th anniversary, we recognise the value this network has beyond a milestone moment. Our Patron’s Network brings together the most influential people in the real estate’s industry’s present and past, maintaining LandAid’s mission at the forefront of leader’s minds.
The calibre of our Patrons speaks for itself. This month, we were delighted to hear that Patron Helen Gordon, Chief Executive of Grainger, was awarded a Damehood in the King’s Birthday Honours List, recognised for services to the real estate industry, including championing charitable initiatives like LandAid’s work to tackle youth homelessness. It’s a remarkable honour, and a reminder of the extraordinary people who champion our mission.
Although formally introduced in more recent history, our Patrons have been key figures in the property sector across not only our history, but the industry’s history too. The network never fails to remind us how as a sector, we have the power to make real, lasting impact on young people’s lives, especially when we come together as one.
Working with Rob and the Patrons Network is a big part of my role at LandAid so I get to see first-hand how generous our Patrons are with their time, ideas and wisdom. We are very lucky to have such an influential group of supporters who can really move the dial on industry awareness and fundraising on our behalf. From organising international marathons to joining our annual Gala Dinner and June Reception, I’m excited to see what further impact we can have together in the future.Shelbie Walker, National Partnerships Manager at LandAid
“I have been lucky enough to have had an involvement with LandAid for the bulk of its 40 years great work. I was an early Mike Slade recruit to Party near the Park, stepping up to the Fundraising Committee, which I eventually chaired, and then onto the Board for a rewarding nine-year term as a Trustee.
Like so many others who had both adopted LandAid as the industry’s principal charity and contributed to its growth, the cause inevitably became close to our heart. Simply walking away from some form involvement wasn’t ever going to be an option and it therefore made great sense to work with Rob Bould, Suzanne Avery and others in developing the idea of a Patrons’ Network. It’s great to see it flourishing with an ideal mix of industry stalwarts and former LandAid stakeholders who have agreed to back the concept and to continue to make their contribution to the elimination of youth homelessness across the UK, which remains too big a problem.
In practical terms, the Patrons’ Network has also allowed me some to retain some ongoing continuity with my other main charitable cause, The Property Race Day, which has been a regular contributor to LandAid over the years. The ability to keep the involvement has worked to everyone’s benefit to such an extent that PRD has now formed its own Patron’s Group – we live and learn
I wish LandAid and its Patrons’ Network every success.”
– David Erwin, LandAid Patron.
We are incredibly grateful to our Patrons, for the fantastic work they do in championing our mission. LandAid would not be where we are today if it weren’t for this brilliant group.
