Behind the Laughter: A Hilarious Peek into Charity Life in Garrett Millerick's Do Gooders

Garrett Millerick's latest offering on BBC Radio 4, "Do Gooders," dives headfirst into the world of charity fundraising, revealing the quirky and often comical challenges faced by those working tirelessly behind the scenes. Presented as a sitcom, this new series peeks behind the curtain of a fictional organization, The Alzheimers Alliance, where the pressures of fundraising create a fertile ground for humor and relatable frustrations. In episode three, titled "The Bully," the focus shifts to Harriett, portrayed by Fay Ripley, who attempts to implement a new set of workplace bullying guidelines within the fundraising team. However, her well-intentioned initiative quickly spirals out of control, illustrating the difficulties of navigating office culture in a high-pressure environment. The episode drives home the idea that even the most positive intentions can lead to unexpected complications, an insight that resonates deeply in today's organizational climate. The ensemble cast brings a rich tapestry of characters to life. Ania Magliano's Lauren grapples with personal financial woes that many listeners will recognize, while Lisa McGrillis and Garrett Millerick's characters, Gladys and Clive, escalate their rivalry in a fundraising challenge that showcases both their competitiveness and their desperation to secure donations. Meanwhile, the ever-hilarious Frank Skinner plays Ken, who faces a series of logistical hurdles that add another layer of comedy to the narrative. Set against the backdrop of a mid-level charity, "Do Gooders" cleverly contrasts the struggles of The Alzheimers Alliance with those of more glamorous organizations like cancer charities, which often dominate the fundraising landscape. By likening Alzheimers Alliance to Lilt—refreshing but less recognizable compared to the iconic Coca-Cola—Millerick underscores the uphill battle that mid-tier charities face in capturing public attention and support. The series not only entertains but also prompts meaningful reflection on the nature of charity work. By mixing humor with genuine challenges, it highlights the importance of recognizing the efforts of those in less-heralded organizations, whose contributions are vital yet often overlooked. As listeners tune in to "Do Gooders," they are offered a unique blend of laughter and insight, making it a must-listen for anyone who has ever participated in or observed the complexities of charity fundraising. With its clever writing, engaging characters, and topical themes, Garrett Millerick's "Do Gooders" promises to resonate with a broad audience, reinforcing the idea that doing good, while noble, can often be anything but straightforward.