Firs Community Benefit Society

Who are they and what is their aim?

Firs Community Benefit Society is a new community led organisation based in Sale, Trafford, that is driving forward plans to build a community sports and wellbeing venue.

Ran by a dedicated team of volunteers the organisation plans to create a long-term future for well-established clubs that currently occupy the Sale West Community centre and attract new activities as well as forge strong links with local schools and GP practices.

How is the Resonance Community Developers Fund supporting them?

Resonance has enabled the group to gain the support and guidance necessary for such an ambitious project, both in terms of the complexities associated with developing a newly built facility and the forward thinking about how the community can interact and be involved in its delivery of activities.

For over 20 years the residents and key partners of Sale West have been looking at the future of the Sale West Community Centre, ranging from refurbishing the existing building to the present option of a new build. During this time, despite many setbacks, the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the resident led partnership has never wavered and thanks to the involvement of Resonance and GMCVO, the group believe they are now in a position to deliver a fit for purpose 21st century community hub.

The Society has taken time to look at their approach volunteering. Using Resonance funding to bring in advisors, the group is developing a scheme linked to their membership where volunteers can build up volunteering credits (using a barcode membership card) that they can redeem for free classes, food in the café or room hire fees for events such as birthday parties. The software required to hold information about volunteering credits will also calculate social value, so investors will be able to receive updates on the social value their investment has created. 

"Thanks to support GMCVO we have been able to set up a strong organisation and ensure that the project maintains momentum. ” Sam Cooper , Project Coordinator for Firs Community Benefit Society.

To find out more about the Resonance Community Developers Fund visit: https://www.gmcvo.org.uk/gmsocinvest/communitydevelopers 

 

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