Civilian Committee Member

Civilian Committee Member Ashford Kent Volunteer Centre 402 (Gravesend) Squadron RAFAC

Civilian Committee volunteer - supporting fundraising, welfare & governance for RAF Air Cadets.

Overview

The Civilian Committee is essentially our squadron's governing support team (like a school's governors/PTA for Air Cadets). It's made up of adult volunteers - often parents, former cadets, or community members - who manage the squadron's welfare fund and support its Commanding Officer. We work alongside the uniformed cadet staff to handle governance, welfare support, fundraising, and financial oversight for the squadron.

Responsibilities

• Attending committee meetings roughly once per school term (about 3-4 evenings per year) to discuss squadron plans, finances, and cadet welfare. Meeting times are arranged to suit everyone; virtual attendance may be possible.
• Fundraising activities: occasional events or initiatives (bag-packing, community fairs, sponsored walks, etc.), planning or supervising events and raising funds for the cadets.
• Shaping opportunities: contribute ideas and feedback to help shape the opportunities offered to cadets; input can influence projects and trips.
• Supporting the Squadron: advocate for 402 (Gravesend) Squadron Air Cadets in the community; help promote activities, connect with local organisations, be present at awards nights/open days.
• Officer roles (if taken): additional duties such as Secretary (agendas, minutes, correspondence) or Treasurer (accounts, budgeting, reporting).
• Safeguarding: complete basic safeguarding steps including an enhanced DBS check and induction training on child protection; guidance provided to ensure cadet safety.

What is in it for you

Volunteering on our Civilian Committee is incredibly rewarding. You'll have a direct hand in creating life-changing opportunities for young people in Kent. The funds you help raise and decisions you help make ensure our cadets can do things they might otherwise only dream of - flying aircraft, going on adventure camps, earning Duke of Edinburgh's Awards, and much more. In fact, without the committee's support, many of these enriching activities simply wouldn't be possible. Knowing that you helped make them happen gives a tremendous sense of pride and accomplishment.

• Make a Difference: See firsthand the positive impact on cadets. You'll watch shy teens grow into confident leaders, knowing your efforts behind the scenes helped make it happen.
• Build Friendships: You'll meet wonderful like-minded people. Our committee and squadron staff are a welcoming bunch who enjoy teamwork and a good laugh.
• Develop Your Skills: You could hone abilities in event planning, fundraising, leadership, budgeting, or community outreach. It's valuable experience in charity governance and committee work.
• Flexible & Fun: There's no heavy daily commitment - just periodic meetings and the activities you can support. Many volunteers fit this around full-time jobs or family commitments.

By volunteering with us, you'll be supporting the next generation of young adults and giving back to your local community in a meaningful way. Every hour you contribute helps open doors for a cadet - and you'll enjoy being along for the journey as they "Aim High" and thrive.

Time Commitment

Approx. 2-3 hours per month (termly meetings + occasional fundraising/support)

Role Address

Joint Cadet Centre Gravesend
Grange Road
Gravesend DA11 0EU

Please do not visit without an appointment

Application Process

• Application Form
• ID Check
• References
• Informal Discussion (may include an interview)
• Simply Connect Solutions Ltd, Company registered in England and Wales