We took the opportunity to catch up with Kevin Rolfe, who is a member of our Welfare Audit Group!

How long have you been a volunteer for the Electrical Industries Charity?

I can’t remember! It’s been a while, and I didn’t really make a note of when; it just seemed to happen naturally after many years of attending and supporting various events.

What is your volunteer role for the Electrical Industries Charity?

For many years I was a member of the Regional Committee for the Southern Region, I’ve recently stood down from this role but I had already taken on an additional role for the Welfare Advisory Group or is that Welfare Audit Group, either way my friend and chair of the group John Ong always describes our role as being a ‘Critical Friend’ and along with the challenges I’ve made a lot of great new friends.

How did you first hear about the Electrical Industries Charity?

When I was a young man in my early twenties I was diagnosed with cancer and went through a particularly difficult patch adjusting. It was not until sometime after that I even learned about the Electrical Charity, and I was determined to make sure that as many people as possible knew that they could access the help that would have benefitted me if only someone had told me sooner.

What inspired you to become involved with the EIC?

See the above. I’m always shocked at how people don’t know what support they can get.

What resonates most with you about EIC’s mission and work in the electrical industry?

It’s our Charity, for our people in our industry. We look after our own and it provides real connection with real people either through direct support or the events that raise funds.

As a trustee, what specific goals do you hope to achieve with EIC?

I’ve always felt that a I’ve been part of helping the charity to change with the times. Knowing when to speak up and knowing when to stand aside. I feel I still contribute to making the EIC relevant and help to safeguard and advocate for those less able to or willing to.

Could you share a memorable moment or proud achievement in your time with the EIC?

After the London Olympics in 2012 ‘someone’ came up with a terrible idea of riding my cycle 500miles in 5 days. We hadn’t really focused on ‘Challenge for a Cause’ in the way we do now but that was my ‘Challenge’. Ending up at the old Charity Offices near Tower Bridge I’d ridden To all the offices of my company around the country and can honestly say I’ll never do that again!

In your opinion, what impact does EIC have on individuals and businesses within our industry?

I have friends who have needed the charity at tough times in their lives, I’ve seen sceptics change their opinion, I’ve seen people step up and change their lives and I’ve seen our charity help everyone of them.

How do you envision the charity evolving over the next few years, and what role do you hope to play in that?

Charity is a luxury that many can no longer afford, I’ve never come across a charitable cause that was not a worthy one, we have to inspire people to choose ours and have the confidence that we will support those in most need within our industry.

Are there any projects or future initiatives you’re particularly excited about?

I heard a rumour about a ‘Challenge for a Cause’ on a beach in Bali. I think i could manage that. Anyone sponsor me!

What has been the most rewarding part of your work with the EIC?

The most rewarding parts of working with the EIC have been following real tragedy. Seeing people grow and learning myself to help ensure those tragedies are not repeated, there’s a bigger story there and there are countless similar ones. Our people care and they act!

What advice would you give to someone considering getting involved with EIC, either as a volunteer or supporter?

As a supporter you will make a connection with an industry that can be life long and make friends who will help you at every step. As a volunteer, do what you can, when you can. Not everyone needs to climb Everest, listening to someone or having a virtual coffee can change their life, and yours!

How are you marking our 120 year anniversary?

I’m determined to make sure the next generation of volunteers steer us toward 240 years. I’m walking every step, climbing every mountain, jumping from every building, with every fundraising activity that happens, I’m just doing it in spirit!