Volunteering at Sunnyside for International Women’s Day 2025
In recognition of and to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, several of the Bugler Group team took part in volunteering at Sunnyside Rural Trust.
On a warm and sunny spring day, women from across our business supported the Sunnyside team in helping to create the world of the Wizard of Oz for their annual Trainee Awards event. Sunnyside, who are located in Hemel Hempstead and were founded in 1990, is a thriving charity and social enterprise, offering training and work experience for over 170 vulnerable people in the Dacorum community.
From supplying props and the “Yellow Brick Road”, to helping create the Emerald City, the Dark Forest and setting up the venue, our team of volunteers and those from Dacorum Borough Council got hands on with a number of activities to transform the space ahead of the awards.
The team were also pleased to provide a donation of £500 to Sunnyside on behalf of the Bugler Foundation, to further support their great work.
“My quote from Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz, “Every journey begins with a single step – just keep moving forward.” It encapsulates the essence of embarking on a journey whether it be a career or pursuit of one’s dreams, the quote inspires me to take that initial step, no matter how daunting it may seem. It urges me to push through uncertainties and many obstacles I may encounter along the way and ensuring I maintain my momentum and never losing sight of my goal.”
– Helena O’Keeffe, Social Value and Community Manager at Bugler Developments
“I recently joined the women of Bugler Developments who volunteered at a local trust, Sunnyside Rural Trust to transform their rather large greenhouse to a Wizard of Oz themed wonder. I met some wonderful volunteers, offered my curtain holding expertise and laughed throughout. I am sure the event went beautifully, we all had a wonderful time with you.”
– Claire Crassweller, Bid Writer at Bugler Developments
“Had a fantastic time volunteering at Sunnyside Rural Trust yesterday, helping set up for their Trainee Awards event! It was inspiring to see the dedication and hard work of all the members of staff at Sunnyside. Grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful occasion and support the amazing work they do in the community.”
– Phoebe Evans-Khan, Technical Co-ordinator at Bugler Developments
“Our event was a huge success and enjoyed by all, especially our trainees that spent the latter part of the afternoon dancing away to our trainee DJ Aggy. Their creative flare and donation of props, especially the yellow brick road, really helped us transform our Wizard of Oz theme vision into a reality. We ensure our trainees have a safe, comfortable, and non-judgemental space to really be themselves and embrace life in its fullest. It has been a pleasure to share their experiences with you. Thank you also for the very generous donation which we will certainly put to good use.”
– Paula Horsnell, Sunnyside Rural Trust
