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Invitation for Organisations to get involved in Community Events, April 2024

Charities and similar groups in Medway are invited to take part in community activities as part of the large-scale creative programme for 2024.


Read on to learn more about Carnivals and Festivals coming up...

Medway Voluntary groups, Charities, Social Enterprises, and Faith groups (VCSEF) make such a unique contribution to making Medway a better place to live.

One of the biggest challenges can be letting the people who you would like to connect with, or support know that you are there for them.

This year there are lots of events happening all over Medway that bring the community together in so many diverse and interesting ways. They provide fantastic opportunities to celebrate, have fun and find out more about what is going on.

For VCSEF groups they are lots of potential benefits of making time to join in. They can increase your visibility to new audiences and help you connect with people who need your help.

They are also a great way to meet other local organisations to build positive new relationships or partnerships. You may even be able to raise more funds or sign up new regular donors.

To make the most of being there, it can be helpful to plan ahead:
  • How will what you do compliment the spirit of the event? Would a fun activity related to what your organisation delivers improve engagement with your team?
  • How many staff and volunteers will make the event manageable for everyone attending? Tired and overwhelmed ambassadors won’t be able to promote your organisation well.
  • Have you got enough resources? Think about how many people are coming and how long you will be there. Running out of all your leaflets in the first hour of a 4-hour event could make it tricky for your team!
Here are two fantastic events coming up this summer that would love Medway organisations to join in.

1. Nucleus Arts would like to extend a warm invitation to any Medway organisation to be a part of the third vibrant and exciting Chatham Carnival, taking place on July 6th, 2024.
There are three different ways organisations can engage:
    • Stalls: Showcase your cause, engage with the community, and raise awareness for your initiatives through an interactive stall.
    • Stage: Take centre stage and captivate the audience with your message! They're offering performance slots for any live entertainment groups and activities. An opportunity to celebrate your charity's mission while spreading joy and positivity to all who line the streets.
    • Parade Opportunities: Be a vibrant part of the Carnival procession! An opportunity to celebrate your charity's mission while spreading joy and positivity to all who line the streets.
To secure your participation or for more information, please contact original@nucleusarts.co.uk.

2. Paramount Foundation would like to invite you to take part in this year’s Sticks and Stones Festival.
Sticks and Stones festival is an active all age ‘social prescribing’ event where people can come along and get an experience to try out and find out about new things to try.

Where possible, they are encouraging organisations to think about fun ways you can give people opportunities to ‘have a go’ rather than just handing out a leaflet.

The Festival takes place on Saturday 10th August 2024 from 11am – 5pm.

Last year over 2000 people attended. You can watch the video here to give you a flavour of the event.

The event is moving this year to Medway’s University of Greenwich campus, ME4 4TB. This means no huge hill and a great onsite café for refreshments.

If you would like more information or to book a space, please contact Matt Salisbury at matts@pipservices.co.uk