The Challenge: help for Transition Initiatives in the UK
By Ben Brangwyn 17th April 2012
Submit your expressions of interest now for support in September 2012
[Note: this just came in from a Transitioner in London]
The Challenge (www.the-challenge.org) is a nationwide organisation that is focused on community-building and citizenship for teenagers. They are an absolute boon to Transition Initiatives because you receive the enthusiasm and effort of 12 teenagers for a whole day, and even get paid for hosting them! We hosted a group from the Challenge last year at ELL, the plant nursery in Finsbury Park, London. It was a fascinating and productive day.
As someone who probably last had a conversation with a 16 year old when I was 16 myself, it was deeply interesting and rewarding. Quite a few of my prejudices were overturned by the process. We also hosted a group at our Well Oiled festival and Linda from Cob in the Community (http://cobinthecommunity.org/) has also worked with them on several occasions. They are highly recommended.
By taking part, your initiative will receive:
- the time and commitment from 12 16yr olds and 2 adults for a day – they will be from your area, but not necessarily local local
- at least £150 for your project
- a chance to show the teenagers what community work involves and to learn about Transition and your project
- a chance to give the teenagers the opportunity to make a difference in their community
Tom Newman from the Challenge writes,
“The aim could be to engage with your clients to better their day, perform tasks like painting or gardening to improve your spaces, or something else that would benefit you. It’s up to you. The Challenge will help fund the project if it has a small budget and we are committed to ensuring that all days can run with little or no cost to local organisations. We are looking to get all days penciled in by the end of April so don’t hesitate to get in touch to secure your chance of a great day.”
So get your thinking caps on about what kind of support your project may need this September! Then call 0207 9214 404 and ask for the Programme manager for your area.