Payback time for fundraising David!

Updated: 28 Jan 2025

David Smith, a member of the Cleveland and Durham Branch of the Oddfellows, has been recognised in our Making a Difference Awards for his dedication to fundraising.

69-year-old David Smith (pictured), has been presented with the prestigious Oddfellows Making a Difference Award for ‘Giving something back’. The national award celebrates individuals who selflessly give their time to, or raise money for, good causes.

David always looks inventively at ways he can raise money for charities in desperate need Jane Nelson, CEO

Speaking about his award win, David says: “I have been an Oddfellow for 44 years now, so to win the award was a fantastic moment. Over the years, I have enjoyed putting together a huge number of concerts for my local Branch and, along the way, helped to raise in excess of £30,000 for The Soldiers’ Charity and our community, too.”

David, who is Branch Secretary for Cleveland and Durham District Oddfellows, is highly regarded by his colleagues and fellow committee members. They say that while he’s quiet, unassuming and gentle, his sharp mind’s not to be underestimated. Always thinking of how he can help others, he’s frequently involved in putting together local social or fundraising events, and providing support to the group’s local members.

Oddfellows CEO Jane Nelson joins in her praise of David, saying: “He always looks at ways in which he can step in to help others and looks inventively at ways he can raise money for charities in desperate need, such as his spectacular brass band concerts. He’s a wonderful ambassador for our Society, and we’re incredibly proud of him.”

Can you help us to find our 2020 award winners?
If you know a member at your local Branch who deserves some special recognition, why not nominate them for a Making a Difference Award? Any member can nominate another member, it's just a matter of filling in a quick nomination form, available to download from the Members' Area.