Cooperative Membership Fund
Top of my wish list for 2011 is to get more involved in our local community. We've lived in our house for almost 4 years but it's only since Edward was born that we've attended Mother and Baby groups, many run by volunteers. Did you know that funding is available to support the vital work that groups do in the community?
The Co-operative Community Fund is a grant scheme, which helps local communities throughout the UK. The scheme is funded by generous members of The Co-operative donating some of their share of profits, which is then given away in the form of small grants. In 2011 The Co-operative Members have donated £1.2 million to local community groups across the country.
Who are The Co-operative?
I have fond memories of the Co-op as my grandparents always shopped at their local branch. I remember they always had a shopping list they referred to as they went round and each shop they collected stamps in their savings books. Founded in 1863 today The Co-operative operate in the food, travel, funeral care, financial services and clothing markets.
What is The Co-operative Community Fund?
The Community Fund is a registered charity and is governed by The Co-operative Community Investment Fund (CCIF). This board of trustees are responsible for ensuring funds to projects are given in line with the Charities Commission guidelines. Grants vary from a minimum of £100 to a maximum of £2,000.
To be successful a group must:
- Carry out positive work in the community (it does not have to have charitable status to apply)
And the project must:
- Address a community issue
- Provide a long-term benefit to the community
- Support co-operative values and principles
- Ideally be innovative in its approach
We live in a diverse area and I know there's a lot more going on than the events we attend. With funding due to be cut to our local children's centre there's a real need for the local community to keep events for mothers and children going. Our community is incredibly diverse and it would be great to see a new project bringing together different community groups in one place.
If you have a great idea for a project in your community have a look at the application form which is available on their website and apply. You never know, you just might make a difference!
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