 The Frost Partnership, with 13 offices across the Thames Valley, Chilterns and Middlesex is committed to supporting charities and forged a relationship with Spoon. The results have been startling – and not just about money, says John Frost, MD of the family-run firm. Since January, an energetic group of people in the company have raised £7,311 for Spoon and the fundraising is still going strong. Although the figure so far might not be regarded by some as huge, the goodwill it has created within the company, the benefits for the business and the amount of good publicity the charity has received, have all been invaluable. Frost says: “Raising funds definitely has a positive impact on the people participating in, and supporting, the challenges. We have had a phenomenal response from our staff who have selected the company sports events and personal challenges that suit them best, and with our backing have gone to raise funds for the challenge they set themselves. Along the way, they get to know colleagues from offices they wouldn’t necessarily see that often, and with it, have enjoyed new experiences, learnt a bit more about themselves and helped Wooden Spoon.”
 For example, on a cold wet day in May, a team of eight cyclists set themselves the challenge of cycling from London to Brighton, over 55 miles on and off road. With the group was a director of the company who was bowled over the sheer determination of a new junior member of staff from a different office, riding a basic model-style bike with small wheels compared to a road bicycle. She battled her way over the route and although exhausted and soaked, managed to complete the entire challenge in five hours. Another team of six took part in the a London 10km run in June. One of the supporters dressed up as the charity’s mascot, Woody, and went along with a bucket to raise awareness in the crowds. Unexpectedly, Woody decided to unofficially take part in the run- and finished the race in two hours and 24 minutes. The crowds and runners loved Woody and the good work of Spoon was spread throughout everyone supporting the day.
 Getting behind charity events has another benefit. “It’s simply good for business” says Frost. The company sponsored a six-a-side cricket event in Amersham, Buckinghamshire, and a five-a-side football event in Egham, Surrey. They invited associates as well as local businesses to participate. Frost says: “The number of letters of thanks goes to show the enjoyment had on the day, and that will have a positive long-lasting effect. Another positive is that inviting people in these circumstances gives them the chance to meet others with mutual business interests in a relaxed environment.” Gordon Brown, regional chair of Middlesex said “Wooden Spoon is all about having fun while fundraising. We are very appreciative of The Frost Partnership”.
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