Great Fundraising Organizations, by Alan Clayton. Book cover.

Obituary: Liz Monks, fundraiser and charity leader

Howard Lake | 5 November 2015 | News

Fundraiser and charity chief executive Liz Monks has died following a 12-month battle with cancer.
She worked in the charity sector for over 20 years, holding senior fundraising roles at Terence Higgins Trust, Shelter, RNID and Action for Children. She served as Director of Fundraising at Breast Cancer Campaign and the Alzheimer’s Society.
She also chaired the Institute of Fundraising National Convention Board for many years, helping to expand and develop it to its present scale and quality.
 

Fundraising to make a difference

Liz Monks
Friends and colleagues of Monks have spent the last few months supporting her wish to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. She announced six weeks ago that she wanted to raise £20,000 to fund a staff member to work full time for one year at the Royal Free Hospital in London where she was being treated.
She was passionate about why such support was vital. She said:

“I want to make sure that no-one has to go through such misery and loneliness when someone can be there to hold their hand through their difficult decisions, advise or advocate for them… This is one of the most positive things I can do in the time I have left… to use my fundraising skills, and people I know, to make a difference that will help other people after me. In my situation I am sure you’d want to do the same – it’s what makes our profession, and makes us so proud to be in it.”

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As the fundraising has developed, it has become clear just how many fundraisers have been nurtured and inspired by Monks. Comments on her appeal page show just how much she was respected by fellow fundraisers.
Lynda Thomas, CEO of Macmillan and a close of friend of Monks, spoke today about her courage and conviction:

“Liz was not just a brilliant fundraiser but also one of the most influential leaders in our sector. Her ability to inspire and galvanize people to make change happen was demonstrated right to the end. Courage is often a much over used word, but in Liz’s case never so apt.”

The group of friends and former colleagues promised Monks that they would continue to donate and fundraise for her appeal, and to reach a new target of £50,000.
 

Thoughts on Liz Monks


 


 


 
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I had the pleasure and honour of knowing Liz and counting her as a proper fundraising friend. I worked with her on the National Convention board and she brought a fresh energy, enthusiasm and passion that was a real inspiration.

“Personally though, Liz was a great confidante and always there with a wise word and advice. Her friendship and support – especially at a time of turmoil – was hugely appreciated and I – and many others – will miss her”.
Danielle Atkinson

 

“Liz was one of the most talented, energetic and creative fundraisers I’ve ever met, as well as one of the nicest. She always made time to offer support or advice. She led and influenced those around her with great enthusiasm and energy, was sincerely passionate about the good causes she worked for, and for fundraising itself.
“The epitome of a proud fundraiser, she was an inspirational member and Fellow of the IoF, and during her time as chair of our National Convention Board she led the way in making it one of the biggest and best fundraising events in the world. A true believer in the importance of our fundraising community Liz will be missed by us all.”
Peter Lewis, CEO of the Institute of Fundraising

 

“What a truly inspirational and generous soul we have lost. About to re-double efforts for Liz’s appeal.”
Derek Humphries

 

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