Volunteer Spotlight: Marcus Dodd

We spoke to Fund volunteer Marcus Dodd about his role supporting fundraising and engagement activities, the experience he brings from both his RAF service and civilian career, and what motivates him to give his time.

What does your voluntary role at the Fund involve?

My volunteering role involves helping the fundraising teams in whichever task they wish me to fulfil. I attend airshows working on the Fund’s stand selling merchandise and taking donations. I also attend Families Days and Wellbeing days at various RAF stations throughout the year, advising military personnel on the welfare support available to them from the Fund.

Why did you choose to volunteer with the Fund?

My father flew as aircrew with Bomber Command during the Second World War and I served as a reservist, so the RAF Family is very important to me. I want to help in any way I am able. I always knew about the Fund as I believe my mother was a volunteer in the 1940s when she had met my father. A very long time ago! 

How do your skills or background help you in this role?

Both my RAF service as an Intelligence Officer and my career as a Financial and Legal Consultant have played important roles in shaping the skills I bring to volunteering. They’ve developed strong communication, empathy, and enthusiasm, and have reinforced my commitment to supporting serving and former RAF personnel and their families.

What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering with the Fund?

I would thoroughly recommend it. It gives me great satisfaction, and I have made new friends. It’s rewarding to commit your time to a worthy cause.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering?

I like working as part of a team aiming to make a difference and meeting so many different people who have a connection with the RAF in some way.

Is there a particular moment or experience that has really stayed with you so far?

I thoroughly enjoyed supporting a Wellbeing Day and talking to new recruits about the Fund and the support it provides. It was rewarding to feel we were making a genuine difference to their understanding.
I was both overwhelmed and incredibly proud to receive the Above and Beyond Award at the RAF Benevolent Fund Awards in 2025. Being recognised alongside others for helping the Fund support more people meant a huge amount to me.