by Suzy Parsonson, Programme Manager
In MacIntyre No Limits™ Oxfordshire, we are lucky to benefit from a building on our partner college campus which keeps us heavily involved in college life. The downside of this is that we do not have control over allowing visitors access to our site, which can be limiting when trying to build a sense of being part of our wider community. Instead of looking inwards, we need to take ourselves out of our comfort zone on site to engage with everyone, everywhere.
Looking outward
Below are some examples of the wonderful things students at No Limits Oxfordshire have been doing to connect and contribute to their local area
Sweet treats
Jake has a passion for cooking and in particular sweets and desserts. This has been a great way for him to learn life skills, but healthy eating is also an important goal and so there are often left over goods. Working with his team, Jake identified he would be interested in raising some money for charity, and so Jake has planned a bake sale. The funds from this sale will be shared equally between MacIntyre and another local charity that Jake has chosen.
Social board games
Craig has been working on social skills and had taken a leading role in many board games sessions. Craig wanted to meet more people near where he lives. He has been part of a social skills board games session held in our building. Whilst out and about locally, Craig and his team noticed a Community Table in the church café. They’ve now arranged to attend each month to facilitate an open group for people to join to play board games and come together. They’re going to vary the day of the week so that it can reach more people.
Arts and crafts
Rowan has a flair for arts and crafts. She participates in a community programme at the edge of our region, and we wanted to find a way for her talents to be recognised locally. This started with Rowan engaging in a pyrography project, in which she created name badges for student pegs in the building. This has now expanded and Rowan is able to sell her artwork through her local church which raises money for charity.
Making an impact
Each of these different paths has made an impact. For the students themselves who develop their confidence and skills and feel part of their local area. For the teams who support them and enjoy the added purpose to their role. For the local areas who benefit from the skills of the amazing young people, in tandem with their staff teams.
And as a result our community becomes a better, more inclusive place to live and work!
