Posts Tagged ‘social entrepreneurs’
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By vSarah 4th September 12
Sarah Corrigan from Junction49 tells us why the site is going from strength-to-strength, and how you can now get funding for your project through Cashpoint.This week is a big one for Junction49 as we reach our 5th Birthday. Since it first launched in 2007 we’ve worked with young people and organisations all over the country to deliver projects – from working in universities and youth clubs to schools. Earlier this year we were welcomed into the vInspired family and we have gone from strength-to-strength with hundreds of engaged young people working together to make a difference within their local communities.
Bursting with ideas
The range of ideas on Junction49 really is widespread and there are projects being set up by young people aged 13-25 all across the country. Whether you’re interested in doing something to do with mental health, employment, sport or perhaps even something entrepreneurial there’s a project waiting for your help.
What’s your idea?
Perhaps there’s something you’ve always wanted to do, but didn’t know how? Or there’s a cause that you’re really passionate about raising awareness about? Whatever it is, as long it’s led by young people and aims to make a difference we want to hear it.
We’ll support you
Through Junction49 you’ll get your own page dedicated to your idea. You can use it as you like, updating a diary of your experience as you go, and adding photos and videos to show off and showcase your achievements. You’ll receive support from me to help make your idea happen, including help to plan the project, the opportunity to connect with others and promotion. The best bit is that if you need funding you can apply to vInspired Cashpoint for the cash and we’ll support you with everything else you need to get your idea set up.
You’re Hired Event
If you’re looking for inspiration check out this video featuring Junction49er, Ebuni, who set up employment seminars for young people with support from Junction49 and cash from vInspired Cashpoint.
To get started, head on over to www.junction49.co.uk or send an email to help@junction49.co.uk with any questions. You can also keep up to date with the latest goings on over on Twitter @junction49.
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By vJoe 17th April 12
Vinspired Cashpoint has officially opened for business once again, giving young people the opportunity to bring those ideas to life.
We’re offering grants of up to £500 to enable you to change your community for the better.
What’s Cashpoint all about?
Ever wished you could make a positive difference to an issue that affects your community, but not sure how to do it? Cashpoint can make it happen.
If your idea is chosen, we’ll give you the support to get things off the ground. But the best thing about Cashpoint is that you’re in charge.
You’ll have total control over your chosen project and can bring about the positive change in your community just the way you imagined it.
What kind of projects could I run?
As long as your idea is for the benefit of helping others – we’ll consider it! The possibilities are endless…
In 2010 Bashir, 21, from Newham, received funding through Cashpoint to assist with Engage and Raise, his idea for a youth led project which aims to support young people who are not in full time education or employment (NEETS).
His project armed young people with the tools and advice to find their way into work schemes, education or paid employment.
Bashir Ali received a Cashpoint grant in 2010
Bashir said: “Seeing the change in people is the best feeling. Hopelessness turning into hope makes it all worthwhile… The thing people have to realise is that most youths, who are caught up in crime etc, really do want to change. This is what I have discovered.
“Volunteering is great, it makes me care even more about the things I already care about, such a my community, and young people being given a chance”
This is just one example of the kind of thing you could run. But we’re always open to new and interesting ideas. Over the six years that Cashpoint has been running, young people have used their creativity and passion to develop all sorts of projects, including:
• Stand-up comedy sessions to help young people build their confidence
• Cycling lessons to help give young women from Bangladeshi communities independence
• A community ‘earth ship’ to educate local people about eco-friendly living
How do I get involved?
Inspired by some of the ideas above? Want to change your community for the better?
If you’re between 14-25 years-old, you can register your interest for vInspired Cashpoint now.
Any questions?
Unsure about your project idea? Still have questions about how vInspired Cashpoint works?
Post your feedback and questions below and we’ll try and provide you with the answers.
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By vFay 13th January 12
We can all be young apprentices through volunteering
Last month, Young Apprentice captivated audiences, with viewing figures for the final episode reaching a high of 4.7 million viewers.
There is something enjoyable and inspiring about seeing young people doing something positive and productive. In many ways the volunteering sector now strives to offer similar advantages in the lives of young people.
There are some great advantages to volunteering, such as the chance to explore areas you may not be familiar with; as well as providing the opportunity to strengthen your CV by widening personal and professional experiences You have the chance to get involved with sectors which previously may have been completely alien to you such as business and leadership, film and technology, teaching and mentoring, media and marketing or construction and practical work.
There are lots of great organisations offering internships too – giving a vital lifeline to young people looking to get valuable professional experience in order to kick-start their career.
While at college I began looking for a part time job in the retail sector but was continually unsuccessful until my mother suggested volunteering in a local charity shop on Saturdays for a couple of months. With my newly reconstructed C.V and some valid experience at the charity shop, I was able to find some paid work. And although I was doing charity, I really felt like the one who should be grateful as they ultimately helped me get a job.
Overall, charity volunteering or unpaid internships really do allow you to plan your own apprentice experience with the ability to get involved with a whole range of professional opportunities. So why watch others on TV when you really can make it a reality for yourself?
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