Meet our featured fundraiser… Dr Stephanie Fitzgerald

Steph chatting at Bookbanks Dalston, after delivering a talk

Dr Stephanie Fitzgerald is a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, Neuropsychologist and author. As well as giving a live Matthew’s Talk for guests at Bookbanks Dalston, she has now also held two brilliant fundraising events.

We asked Stephanie why Bookbanks matters to her, what she learned from fundraising, and what advice she would give to anyone thinking of organising a fundraiser of their own.

How did you first hear about Bookbanks, and what chimed with you?

I first came across Bookbanks via social media and immediately thought ‘what a fantastic idea!’. I have worked with my local foodbanks and seen how invaluable they are in supporting the local community. I loved the idea of giving people some deeper nourishment: not just food for their bodies, but food for their souls.  

In your work as a psychologist, have you seen the impact books can have on people's lives?

I am a qualified Bibliotherapist, which means I prescribe books as part of my clinical practice. The relationship between good mental health and reading is undeniable and well supported by decades of research. Books are an oasis of calm in a chaotic world. When we see our own stories reflected in someone else’s words, we feel seen. 

You’ve given a talk to guests at Bookbanks Dalston - what was that like?

Joyful! I received such a warm welcome and immediately got chatting to guests about our shared love of both reading and writing. Soon we were chatting about life experiences, joys and the delight in the small things. I loved the conversations, but even more I loved the sense of connection. It was an incredible honour, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

What motivated the two fundraising events you've organised for the charity?

I wanted to do something to raise both funds and awareness. I absolutely love book events and the opportunity to talk about all things books, so it seemed a perfect excuse to have a great chat with people and tell them all about Bookbanks - win-win!

 What shape did they take?

The first event was part of the launch for my book, The Gifts of Winter. I set up an online book tour event, talking to people about the book and winter wellbeing, but also telling them about the amazing work Bookbanks does. All money raised from the tickets went to Bookbanks and it was such a happy part of my book tour.

My second event combined my love of Jane Austen and journalling. I am a big believer in journalling as a tool to support our mental health and I’m also obsessed with Jane Austen. So I thought it would be fun to run a ‘Journal with Jane’ session, where we used the wit and wisdom of Austen to help us get writing. Again, every penny raised from tickets went to Bookbanks. It was a whole hour swimming in the beautiful words of Jane Austen, sharing the amazing work Bookbanks does and getting words onto the page - bliss!

Would you recommend fundraising for Bookbanks?

Absolutely! Both events have been soulful and people have been so enthusiastic about discovering Bookbanks and asking how they can help. It’s been a great way to raise awareness and it starts so many incredible conversations about books, how important they are, and how they’ve changed our lives. Book people are good people and Bookbanks are the best!   

Feeling inspired? We'd love to hear your fundraising ideas. We're always happy to help you plan, promote and deliver an event. Just drop us a line at hello@bookbanks.co.uk