The Connect Reading Team have evolved over the last 3 years, now including 2.7 FTE staff, serving over 150 member organisations.
Lorraine has been in Reading for 20 years, working in roles ranging from supporting complex client groups to directing and managing teams or projects. At Connect Reading, she brings her network of relationships and connections – plus her cross-sector perspective – to further build Connect’s positive impact on the town.
In addition to running Connect Reading, she is Chair of Trustees for a national grant-making charity, a Community Advisor to Reading’s IAG, a member of Thames Valley Police’s SIAG and Founding Director of Libera Voce. In addition, she is working on a Level 7 Leadership & Management course through Knowledge Brief. She also loves listening to and playing music, and can often be found arranging things in colour spectrums and/or alphabetical order!
After graduating from The University of Reading with an Economics Degree, Grace found a passion for engaging with communities and connecting others through her role at Reading University Student’s Union (RUSU) as the elected Welfare Officer. Now, at Connect Reading, Grace works on key projects such as Reading RESCUE and The Giving Tree as well as also working on a Level 5 Leadership & Management course through Knowledge Brief.
Daanish calls Reading home, having lived here his entire life. He joined the Connect Reading team at the end of June. Before coming to us he completed an apprenticeship at American Airlines. It was whilst he was there that he received recognition for his hard work when he received the Above & Beyond badge. He is also an associate at a charity in Pakistan that supports orphans, offering housing and employment opportunities.
Connect Reading is a unique charity because its focus goes beyond just helping charities; it also supports other sectors and helps drive the local economy forward.
