Partner: Catalyst Stockton
Sector: VCSE
Contacts: Lucy Owens, Megan Stevens
Overview
Every year, the Just Williams team selects a charity partner to support, ensuring we make the most meaningful impact possible. For the past 18 months, our chosen charity has been Catalyst Stockton, a leading charitable organisation that supports the entire VCSE sector across Stockton-on-Tees. Catalyst plays a vital role in connecting charities, community groups, and social enterprises, providing them with the tools and support needed to thrive. We chose to work alongside Catalyst to ensure that our efforts would help a diverse mix of institutions, thus people, across our local area.
As a certified B Corp, we are committed to using business as a force for good. Our partnership with Catalyst has been about more than just financial support; it has been an opportunity to engage, volunteer, and offer our expertise to strengthen the VCSE sector.
Our Work with Catalyst
As a certified B Corp, we believe in meaningful, hands-on engagement beyond financial support. Our collaboration has included:
- Fundraising Challenges – Taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Mont Blanc, marathons, and even ultramarathons to raise vital funds.
- Volunteering & Community Support – Engaging in litter-picking initiatives and holiday donation drives.
- Training & Development – Delivering workshops on sales strategy, audience retention, LinkedIn engagement, and CSR through the Tees Expertise Programme.
- Conference Support – Providing expert insights and advocacy at Catalyst’s annual event.
- Financial Commitment – Donating 5% of our net profits to Catalyst to support their ongoing work.
The Just Williams Fund
As a result of the money fundraised through the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, as well as our ongoing commitment to donate 5% of all net profits to our designated charity partner, we had the opportunity to set up The Just Williams Community Fund. This initiative is dedicated to providing financial support to local charities in Teesside, empowering them to continue their vital work within our community. So far, we have provided £6,000 to 12 different charities across Stockton, who are providing critical help to the people of the area.
The Just Williams Fund aims to address the unique challenges faced by Teesside charities by offering grants that enable them to expand their services, reach more individuals in need, and enhance their overall impact. By collaborating with Catalyst Stockton, we ensure that the fund aligns with the specific needs of local organisations, fostering a stronger, more resilient charitable sector in Teesside.
Impact & Recognition
Our work with Catalyst has strengthened the VCSE sector, equipping organisations with the skills and resources to grow sustainably. Feedback from training sessions has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the value of our tailored approach.
Winning the Business Community Impact Award 2023 was a proud moment, but the greatest reward has been seeing the real change we have helped create. From breaking down barriers between businesses and charities to championing collaboration, our partnership with Catalyst continues to make a lasting difference.
Looking Ahead
We remain committed to supporting Catalyst and the wider VCSE sector, inspiring businesses to engage in more meaningful ways. Through fundraising, volunteering, and knowledge-sharing, we aim to drive lasting impact and strengthen our community.Would Catalyst recommend Just Williams?
“Just Williams has been an invaluable partner, going beyond traditional financial support to actively break down barriers between the private and charity sectors. Their flexibility, expertise, and genuine commitment set them apart. We would highly recommend them to any organisation seeking purposeful engagement.”