Our newly appointed Engagement Officer for the Active Plus Connecting Communities Project, Mitch Inglis, has been busy beyond measure over the Summer, attending all sorts of community groups and networking events as she endeavours to let local people know all about the support available to them. Specific mention was made in relation to our unique Confidence and Motivation courses delivered by our team of injured and sick veterans who are ultimately helping themselves through helping others.
One of her most recent experiences involved joining the Cornwall Mind Falmouth Allotment Group where Mitch was able to meet new people, listen to their stories and life experiences whilst explaining the benefits of the Connecting Communities project, immersing in all things “nature” and enjoying some good Cornish fresh air! The group was well attended and certainly shone a light on the importance of bringing communities together, in addition to showcasing some of the wonderful work Cornwall Mind do. A truly positive time was had by all involved.
Mitch joined Penryn community group ‘The Rynners’ who have been our longest running group to continue meeting regularly after completing the Active Plus Motivation and Confidence course. This is a well-attended group with an uplifting atmosphere; another example proving that community matters. These groups reduce social isolation by providing an opportunity to interact in a safe and friendly setting. The smiles present speak volumes!
Mitch has also just attended the Culdrose Community Picnic organised by Home-Start Kernow, joining many other projects including Royal Navy Family and Support, Aggie Weston’s, Kernow Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership, and Healthy Cornwall; all of whom work with the aim of ensuring the happiness and health of families in Cornwall.
In addition to meeting individual participants out in the community, Mitch has attended numerous organised events over the course of June through August. It’s fair to say, her schedule is enough to send anyone into a spin! The list below provides an insight into the scope covered!
- Your Partnerships Networking Breakfast at the Norway Inn
- The Rynners Group
- Pendennis Community Centre
- Dracaena Centre Networking Meeting
- Penryn & Falmouth Foodbank Drop In
- Salvation Army Falmouth – weekly on a Thursday at drop in
- Penryn & Falmouth Foodbank Drop In – Weekly on Thursday afternoons
- Age UK Falmouth including Annual Garden Fete
- Kernow Recovery Community Drop In at Pydar House
- Falmouth Court Care Home
- Band of Brothers Open Evening in Penryn
- Falmouth BID AGM
- MacMillan Coffee Morning at Falmouth Court Care Home
- Cornwall Mind Allotment Group, Falmouth
- Falmouth Town Council
- Home-Start Kernow’s Culdrose Community Picnic
It is always worth noting the importance of the Community Engagement Officer Role; without it, Active Plus would miss out on reaching hundreds of people in dire need of information, support and guidance. We are very grateful for Mitch’s tireless efforts, as are the communities she has helped through the Connecting Communities project, part funded by the Lottery Community Fund.
Because of Mitch, Active Plus will be able to continue highlighting the positive work we do and, most importantly of all, help people most in need of assistance. Everyone deserves a chance to change their life for the better.
There are some exciting things to come, and we will be sure to keep you posted!
If you are looking for ways to meet new people, getting involved with community initiatives, and would like to find out how the Connecting Communities Project could help you to achieve your goals and discover fresh opportunities, feel free to reach out by phoning Mitch on 07301040633 or 01326 567174 or email [email protected]. We will be happy to answer any questions.
Blog Post: Suzanne Body, Active Plus