Nottingham-based youth projects are set to receive a share of £76,000 to increase volunteering opportunities before 2020.
The UK-wide initiative, funded by The Big Lottery Fund and the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, aims to get six out of every ten young people involved in volunteering, campaigning or fundraising in their local community.
A host of partners, including Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Paddy Tipping and the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, have chosen 15 local Nottingham community groups to benefit from the #iwill campaign.
The #iwill campaign was first launched in 2013, and is based around the idea of at least 50% of young people being involved in social action.
Nottinghamshire Community Foundation is acting as match funders and is awarding grants on behalf of the #iwill Fund across Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire County.
In all, £5,000 worth of grants are being awarded to 15 Nottinghamshire-based community groups, including Fearless and Base 51.
A presentation event was held at the Forest Recreation Ground on Thursday 3 October, to bring together members of the community who already commit their time to their local communities.
Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Paddy Tipping, 69, said: “We want to increase the opportunities available for young people to make a difference in Nottinghamshire and use their skills and knowledge to increase the safety of their peers as well as foster positive relationships within our communities.
“The projects we have funded will help develop confidence and self-esteem among young people,” he added.
Nicola Jenkins is just one member of the community who will benefit from the money donated by the #iwill campaign.
Jenkins first set up the OWEN Trust (Open Water Education Network) in memory of her 12 year old son Owen, who drowned in the River Trent in 2016, after attempting to save two girls who struggled in the river’s strong currents.
She has since received £5000 funding to complete her educational programme to teach primary school children about the dangers of waterways and about drowning prevention.
Nicola said: “My son is a hero, he gave his life to save another, he didn’t know what to do in an emergency but had he known he may still be here today, that’s why I called the programme OWEN in memory of my brave son.”
“We are so proud to have been accepted for the grant amount this means the world to us.”
For information on applying for a grant or setting up your own local legacy or family fund please visit www.nottscf.org.uk.
By Faith Pring