Environmental charity Groundwork Leeds is appealing for help having just launched its first ever crowdfunding appeal.
The charity is aiming to raise £10,000 for their Men In Sheds project, which supports older men across the city who are at risk of social isolation. The appeal will enable the project to be open five days a week following the overwhelming positive impact it has had on men’s lives since opening its doors in 2012.
The Leeds shed based in Holbeck, supports older men to try their hand at carpentry, carving and whittling. It is completely free to attend, all equipment and materials are provided, and no previous experience is necessary.
Manager of the project Will Gore commented,
“Since we opened our doors we have been inundated and the shed is really thriving. This is a really valuable project supporting men to build up self-esteem, engage in physical activity and receive the support of like-minded individuals.”
The Leeds-based charity has until 5th May 2015 to reach its target of £10,000 and is using the reward model of crowdfunding. This means that those who pledge receive a gift in return and the project will only be funded if at least £10,000 is raised. Those who pledge to back the appeal can receive anything from a unique homemade gift to the opportunity to experience the shed first hand by joining the men for a session.
The concept that began in Australia is now in its 20th year and there are now over 70 projects across the UK. The idea is to give men who may have experienced bereavement, health problems or mental illness something constructive to do, as well as promoting ‘shoulder to shoulder’ communication.
Groundwork Leeds is appealing to individuals and local businesses to support the project.
Will continued: “We have decided to appeal via crowdfunding as we wanted to publicise the amazing work we do but also give something back to those who support us. The men are producing bespoke hand crafted objects for those kind enough to support us making anything from a chopping board to a money box.”
“To the men, the Shed is more than just a workshop, it’s a space to socialise, share skills and knowledge, or just have a cup of tea and a biscuit.
This project is aimed mainly at men over 55, although we do have younger men coming here. We would love to be able to open five days a week and carry on supporting the men in sheds.”
To make a pledge towards the project please visit the campaign at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/men-in-sheds
The project funded by Leeds City Council and managed by charity Groundwork Leeds has been running since September 2012 bringing men together to share skills and experiences, make new friends and making anything from a chessboard to a bird box.
