Rotherham Pay it Forward is a brand new initiative, that launched following a networking opportunity on 16th March. The aim of this project is to enable community sector groups in Rotherham to tackle austerity measures through acts of giving and peer support.
Thirteen groups came together at the event to talk about what they need and what is available to pledge. The turnout and support voiced on the day is testament to the fantastic commitment local groups share to enable the best possible strategic interventions for our community benefit.
Rotherham Pay it Forward is a variation on the existing Pay it Forward concept, where individuals do a good deed for another without expectation of something in return. This new initiative was made possible by Voluntary Action Rotherham (VAR). The Rotherham Pay it Forward team; made up of VAR staff and volunteers are committed to making this project work for the Rotherham community sector.
Rotherham Pay it Forward is an online brokerage service on the VAR website, allowing voluntary and community groups in Rotherham, who are VAR members to express a need. The need may be to market a service, borrow a van for an event, advocacy, hire a room, source food and drink for service users in need or other. Similarly, for groups and private organisations who have something they are able to pledge to voluntary and community groups, there is an online page to show items available by pledge, allowing expressions of interest to be made.
If your group is interested in joining Rotherham Pay it Forward it is easy to get involved. Just go to the VAR website www.varotherham.org.uk and select Rotherham Pay it Forward in the drop down menu to complete a sign up form.
Email triage@varotherham.org.uk to find out more.