Wednesday Wisdom: Interview with Pete Marron, Senior Partnerships and Project Manager, Break Charity
Q: Tell us a bit more about Break Charity and how people can support you?
A: “At Break, we walk alongside children and young people in, around and leaving care. Through fostering, residential homes, wellbeing support, mentoring, and our leaving care service, we help them build confidence, form strong relationships, and explore new opportunities.
We care differently by offering more than support – we’re there when we’re needed most, providing lifelong love and care so young people can grow beyond what they ever thought possible.
People can support us in many ways, from donating to fund vital services, to fundraising through events and challenges, to volunteering or simply spreading the word. Every action, big or small, helps ensure no young person growing up in care has to face the world alone.”
Q: What’s your secret to finding event partners that truly support your cause?
A: “Building strong partnerships starts with shared values and a genuine passion for our mission. We focus on creating long-term relationships because the more partners learn about Break, the more they get involved in our work with young people. It’s not just about cash sponsorship – value-in-kind support is often just as vital. Many partners contribute expertise, resources, or services that make a real difference to our projects and events.“
Q: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from the GoGo Trails events across Norfolk?
A: “Never stop listening. Every trail needs to feel fresh and relevant, so we constantly adapt to changing expectations and environments. We monitor performance, evaluate impact, and evolve ideas to keep things exciting. Working with businesses, artists, schools, and volunteers means ensuring everyone feels involved and appreciated. Collaboration is key to creating something that delivers social and economic benefits for the whole community.”
Q: What is your favourite event you’ve organised and what made it special?
A: “The Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge for Break stands out for me. I first joined a small corporate group for the challenge and loved it so much that we grew it into a major event in 2023 that anyone could join.
It’s special because it’s not only a true physical and mental test, it brings people together, builds lasting friendships, and all whilst raising significant funds for Break. We’ve now delivered two large-scale walks, with a third planned for May – and I can’t wait to take part again!”
Q: Tell us about a charity event that exceeded all expectations!
A: “Sometimes, small changes make the biggest impact. I previously organised a sponsored walk for a local grassroots football club, aiming to raise funds for wider inclusion and some ground improvements. When sign-ups were slow, we shifted the focus to fundraising for a defibrillator – and that was the turning point. Participation soared, and we raised enough not only for the defibrillator but also for many other major club developments. A simple tweak to the “ask” transformed the outcome.”
To learn more or support Break, visit www.break-charity.org or look out for their next event on www.norfolkevents.uk.
