In 2017, Helen founded CASCAID with the vision of bringing together a network of individuals in the asset and wealth management communities committed to making a positive impact.
From its inception, Helen designed CASCAID to stand out from typical corporate charitable initiatives. Over and above their existing personal and corporate causes, CASCAID ambassadors, a network of nearly 100 individuals, unite to contribute their time, effort, and resources to a series of worthy causes.
Over the years, some of the notable CASCAID initiatives have included skydiving, abseiling, quiz nights, dance competitions, swimming challenges, marathons, an Olympic games tournament, and dodgeball, to name just a few. These activities, both social and frequently competitive, have raised £5.3m for charities.
The proceeds have gone to Cancer Research UK, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. This year, the proceeds from CASCAID will go to support The Rainbow Trust.
Upon learning of the honour, Helen said: “I am thrilled with this recognition. Leading CASCAID has been an honour in itself. While I may be the figurehead for CASCAID, this award is a testament to the hard work and generosity of so many people. I would like to recognise and thank everyone who has been involved, and I would particularly like to mention my dear friend Anne-Marie McConnon, without whom CASCAID would not have been possible.”
Two longstanding CASCAID Ambassadors have also shared their delight with this honour and recognition for Helen and CASCAID.
Marcus Brookes, CIO and managing director of Quilter Investors, commented: “Helen’s idea to create an industry-wide charitable initiative has really changed lives, raising over £5m for amazing causes. I am so pleased to see all her hard work recognised with this award and hope it inspires her to keep going!”
Peter Harrison, group chief executive of Schroders, said: “Schroders has been part of CASCAID since the very beginning. Dozens of people within our business have been involved. We have supported the gala dinners, competed in events such as the CASCAID Olympics and organised our own activities such as the Cazenove Chair Race and the Schtrictly dance competition. I even jumped out of a plane and abseiled the Broadgate Tower! It has been fabulous to see our industry work together for charitable causes and I would encourage everyone to be part of this great initiative.”
Simon Foster, group CEO of Arc, said: “On behalf of everyone at Arc, I would like to congratulate Helen on this tremendous honour. Bringing together individuals from different, and sometimes competitive, companies to work together on a common goal is no easy feat. Helen’s distinctive ability to reach people on a personal level has transformed individuals in a business community into a united network that is a driving force for good. I look forward to seeing CASCAID continue to grow and all its upcoming activities.”
To learn more about CASCAID, please visit cascaidcharity.com, and if you would like to become a part of the CASCAID network you can contact Helen at: [email protected].
Helen was also recognised for her achievements at the Investment Week Fund Manager of the Year Awards 2023, where she received the Outstanding Contribution to the Investment Industry Award.
