A key part of our role at Action Hampshire is to support Hampshire’s community buildings. We provide training, resources and help amplify the incredible work of these small but invaluable hubs which sit at the heart of their community.
Interestingly, these organisations are also a lifeline for even smaller groups and organisations doing equally incredible work! Community halls and centres offer welcoming spaces, administrative support, volunteers, networking, and promotional opportunities to organisations which may have limited resources or capacity.
Community associations can support in two ways: (a) help other small organisations with capacity and administrative support, and (b) host projects and activities so they don’t need to become an organisation in its own right. This means when running a specific activity, there is no need for a new management committee, bank account, insurance policy, governance structure etc.
Kingsclere Community Association, which runs the Fieldgate Centre in Kingsclere, is a shining example of how a small organisation can support people to focus on what they’re passionate about, while providing the admin and governance support that all groups need. Kingsclere Community Association hosts, promotes, and helps source volunteers for the Greener Kingsclere project and its monthly Repair Cafe sessions.
Ian Bowes, Treasurer of the Kingsclere Community Association says:
“It makes perfect sense for us to help smaller projects and organisations. We have the space, connections and administrative back-up to support smaller groups. The Repair Cafes help our community by encouraging waste reduction, so it’s a two-way benefit!”
