Corporate Volunteer, Jo Jones, shares her experience of supporting SFE at our Youth Proms, and what it meant to her, personally and professionally
I recently had the privilege of volunteering at the first night of the Services for Education (SFE) Youth Proms, held at the iconic Symphony Hall in Birmingham.
As a Client Relationship Manager for Clancy Consulting, I have always been passionately curious about community engagement, but this event was something special and completely different charitable initiative —a celebration of talent, dedication, and the transformative power of music.
The Symphony Hall, renowned as one of the finest concert venues in the world, was the breathtaking backdrop for the evening. Its grandeur and acoustics are arguably the best place to perform, and seeing it filled with young performers from local Birmingham schools was nothing short of magical.
The children, many of whom had never stepped foot in such a prestigious venue before, were given the chance to shine on a world-class stage—and they absolutely did in sequins, their finest apparel and sunshine colours fitting with the July weather.
My role as a volunteer was to support the event by being a presence behind the desk, smiling enough to try and persuade the audience to give generously to my charity bucket and talking to the parents. Full credit goes to Sarah Caldwell (Fundraising Manager), who demonstrated exceptional organisational skills in leading the volunteer team.
I was also given the opportunity to sit in the first half of the show so that I could see what the charity works towards throughout the year and to be immersed in the energy and excitement of the evening.
But beyond the volunteering, it was the atmosphere that left an impression. The tears of pride and happiness on the faces of parents, the nervous anticipation of the performers, and the sheer joy that radiated from the stage, it was a powerful reminder of why organisations like SFE matter so deeply.
A lot of people don’t know that Services for Education is a charity that helps bring music and arts education to children all over Birmingham. Their big goal is making sure every child can enjoy great creative activities, no matter where they come from. The Youth Proms event really shows what they’re about—it’s the result of loads of practice, hard work, and dedication from everyone involved.
I enjoyed a variety of performances throughout the evening. From orchestras and choirs and ensembles, the talent on display was phenomenal. Each act was met with enthusiastic applause, and you could feel the encouragement and support flowing from the audience. It was more than entertainment—it was empowerment.
A highlight for me was seeing hundreds of school children, who had rehearsed separately for weeks, finally come together as a choir to perform for the first time that night—an incredible moment.
For several of these children, it was their initial experience performing before a large audience. The confidence and sense of achievement they gained will stay with them for years to come.
Volunteering at this event also gave me a deeper appreciation for the behind-the-scenes efforts that make such nights possible. The SFE team, along with teachers, parents, and volunteers, worked seamlessly to create a safe, welcoming, and inspiring environment. It was a true community effort, and despite a few nerves of “will I be of any use” I was honoured to be a part of it.
As someone who works closely with clients and stakeholders, I often talk about impact and value. This night reminded me that impact isn’t always measured in numbers or metrics—it’s in the smiles of children, the tears of proud parents, and the harmony of voices united in song. It’s in the opportunities we create and the doors we open.
What also struck me was how volunteering is becoming an increasingly meaningful way to network with our third sector business colleagues. These shared experiences go beyond formal meetings or emails—they build genuine connections rooted in shared values and purpose. When we stand side by side in support of a cause, we foster professional trust that runs deeper than transactional relationships. It’s a reminder that collaboration in the third sector is often built on empathy, commitment, and mutual respect.
Despite my nerves of being useful, I left the Symphony Hall that night with a full heart and a renewed sense of purpose. Volunteering with SFE was not just about giving back—it was about witnessing the incredible potential within our local schools and the importance of nurturing it. It reaffirmed my belief in the power of education, the arts, and community collaboration.
To anyone considering volunteering with Services for Education or attending one of their events, I wholeheartedly encourage you to do so. You’ll be inspired, moved, and reminded of the beauty that exists when we come together to support our young people and if you love music, and who doesn’t? that makes it even more special.
Thank you, SFE, for the opportunity to be part of such a memorable evening. And thank you to every child who performed—you were brilliant, brave, and unforgettable.
About the Author
This blog was written by Jo Jones, Client Relationship Manager at Clancy Consulting.
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