Meeting Needs awarded the first annual David Hackett Award for Outstanding Achievement to SongDivision at the M&IT Awards on Friday 8th October. Renamed last year to commemorate the contribution of David Hackett to our industry and the charity, this annual award is given to an individual or organisation that makes an outstanding contribution to the charity’s work. General Manager (UK/Europe) Sam McNeill was there to accept the award, presented by David’s wife Sharon, on the night.

SongDivision have played a starring role in Meeting Need’s most high profile fundraising events – Rock Down Lock Down and the Big Bid Bash (which raised £24k across both events). They have also donated three prize experiences to our auctions and events (which are valued at £5k each).

Announcing the award on stage, Vice Chair Lene Corgan said “Whenever we have asked for help, their response has been an unflinching “YES”. As well as providing their artists and their time, they’ve taken on video production, logistics and promotion for the charity. They have always gone the extra mile to help us. They have consistently promoted and referenced the charity’s work, helping us raise much needed funds to support all our projects.”

As a long-serving Board Member of Meeting Needs, David Hackett was an inspiration to all of us at the charity. He was a true champion of our work and was particularly proud that the events industry had its own charity, uniting behind a common cause. He was also a respected colleague, friend, and mentor to us all.

David’s contribution to Meeting Needs was immense, as indeed was his contribution to the events industry. His innate commitment and drive to help others less fortunate was ever-present, and through his actions and in recognition of the example he set, we were honoured to rename our annual charity award, the David Hackett Award for Outstanding Achievement.