My journey with TCV began in June 2016 at 18.5 hours per week, this was ideal to fit in my girls – who are my world! The purpose of my role to help ‘maintain’ the membership. As time went by the retention of the groups begin to increase and it was obvious the CN was ready to grow and flourish.
In September 2017 my hours increased to 30. This saw the introduction of new benefits for the groups, a brand-new portal was created, and the network continued to grow in numbers and retention. This was really exciting as we could see how much of a need there is for such a fantastic support network for community groups.
The community network is bountiful of such diverse and amazing groups ranging from a small number of volunteers to some groups who have over 1,000 volunteers. From litter pickers to allotments, to castles. I have had the privilege of visiting some of our community groups, they are so passionate about their local community, what it means to those that live there it’s truly inspiring. For us to see what can be achieved with a bit of time, a lot of hard work and a whole lot of love. The difference these groups are making is magical!
Here we are now offering free membership to our groups old and new to celebrate this amazing milestone of 60 years. I can’t wait to see how the groups help us celebrate our special year and learn about all the exciting activities they get up to up and down the country. I am hoping I will receive a few invites to some of these events… all for research and photo gathering purposes of course.
I am looking forward to seeing the CN continue to expand and evolve to become the number one support network for communities working in green spaces and loving where they live.