'Little but fierce': the impact of CMP on our community

The Aviator in Farnborough once again played host to CMP's annual Celebration Event at which the latest Social Impact Report (2025) was formally launched. The Sky Lounge was packed with Members, sponsors, beneficiaries and guests including the Mayor of Rushmoor, gathered at the start of 2026 to reflect on the collective achievements of CMP over the past year. And what a year it has been!

Paul Edwards (Chair of Trustees), in his opening address, paid tribute to the work of our partners: 'Have no doubt, the achievements summarised in the Report - and there are many - are YOURS. Every hour you give strengthens communities and improves lives.

In 2025, we have calculated that for every £1 invested in CMP generates £1.94 back to the community. That is powerful.'

Picking up on this theme, Simon Jarvis (CEO) drew on a literary reference to describe the work of the Charity in 2025: 'In Midsummer Night’s Dream Helena says of her friend Hermia that 'she be but little but she is fierce’.

Who would have possibly thought that when CMP was born that this modest social enterprise would be capable of all that has been achieved over the intervening 16 years! The collective endeavours of volunteers over almost two decades is truly ‘fierce’ – truly remarkable and is something you should be very proud to have been part of.'

Beneficiaries of CMP work included Tomlinscote School, whose Principal Rob Major, spoke warmly about the impact RAISE has had on pupils at his school:

'The companies involved in this unique initiative have made a significant difference to our youngsters, providing them with rich experiences which they would not otherwise have had. We are very lucky to have CMP on our patch!'

Following a tradition established at the first of these Celebration Events, Simon presented awards to this year's CMP Supporting Super Stars., thanking in person extraordinary friends of CMP who have each been closely involved in our development for many years.

•  Nicolette Ernst-Kitchen from Farnborough Business Park: for whom nothing is too much trouble; a strong advocate and dynamic supporter of CMP who, in her own words, thinks “everyone should be a CMP member.”

• Paul Adams owner of Branston Adams: an ardent and active supporter, who has freely and generously given hours of his company’s time since CMP was first established to ensure that the our accounts are presented in good shape annually.

•  Geoff Roy, Director of Leapfrog Marketing: who’s technological expertise, advice and guidance has been invaluable. A wholehearted supporter: recent appearances at the annual Quiz as Darth Vador and more recently Woody will never be forgotten!

At the core of CMP is the deeply held belief that we are, as a community, stronger together. In addition to celebrating the remarkable contribution of so many volunteers in 2025, the event was also an opportunity to thank the individuals and companies without whose contributions CMP simply could not function. Take a bow:

• Our Twilight sponsors: Blackbushe Airport, Fluor, Herrington Carmichael, Source, UK Connect, Village Hotel and 360 Mortgages

• Our Golf Day sponsor: Source

• Our Quiz Night sponsors: Farnborough International and Cr8tive Space

• Our service providers: Branston Adams, Conquest Consultancy, Leapfrog Marketing, Perfect Balance, Village Hotel

• Our RAISE hosts: Amazon Filters, BMW Group (UK), Farnborough Airport, UK Connect, Village Hotel

• Our event hosts: Aviator

• Our founder, whose spark lit the CMP flame: Tracy Jarvis

Closing this joyful occasion, Simon paid tribute to the team of staff and Trustees who drive CMP. He also had this to say about the power of volunteering: 'Never doubt that your efforts have a positive impact: as the feedback I receive tells me time and time again. Not just on the beneficiaries: your work has a huge impact on the mental health of your staff as well as those in our communities.

Looking ahead, with your continued support we will continue to challenge, inspire, elevate and influence people to get involved in taking action to improve the communities in which we live and work.'

What a great start to 2026: happy new year to you all!