The programme supporting young people to be the change they want to see
Leaders of an ambitious grassroots-led project are setting out to prove there is a different way that has the potential to benefit entire communities – and they are seeking support from businesses and organisations across Bristol.
“This impacts everyone, these young people are literally the future of the city,” says Ben Carpenter, speaking about the Grassroot Activators Programme (GAP).
The cohort of young people will have the opportunity to find their passion and strengths through the programme, which aims to provide a stepping stone into employment, further education or apprenticeships and train individuals with lived experience in marginalised areas of the city in youth, community and nature-based work.
“The best resource we have in youth work is youth workers. If we are not investing in people, how do we expect them to go into those roles?”
Coming from “humble beginnings”, the founder of Grassroot Communities had challenges at home that meant he didn’t excel in school but eventually found his skills and passion lie in youth work.
It costs £6,700 to put a young person through GAP for a year. A number of businesses and community organisations have already committed to sponsoring five individuals in the first cohort and Ben is hoping others will be willing to step up and invest in the future youth and community leaders.
“This provides young people with an opportunity to learn lots of different skills that will support them in their journey through life.”
The GAP modules have been developed in consultation with young people, their families and communities in south Bristol although it will be rolled out citywide.
The programme will connect young people with their own communities and others from different cultures, beliefs and backgrounds, celebrating both differences and similarities across the city. The aim is for the first cohort to start in September this year.
Find out more information via www.facebook.com/grassrootcommunities/ or email info@grassrootcommunities.org.
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I’m a diversity consultant and a design and communications consultant. I help people and organisations develop vision, communicate and deliver cultural change.