The Comic Relief Organisational Growth Grant enabled the Game Change Project to develop a new mission statement, a three-year fundraising strategy and a clear vision for the future.
The Game Change Project, a community interest company in Powys, is dedicated to improving young people’s confidence, well-being and aspirations through engaging outdoor activities. With a vision to become a flagship centre of excellence, it supports youth from diverse backgrounds to enhance their life chances.
BACKGROUND TO THE PROJECT
After consulting with local stakeholders, it was clear that there was an increasing demand for more placement opportunities offering work experience, skills and vocational qualifications for young people. As the only provider of structured out-of-classroom learning in Powys, The Game Change Project realised they had to grow and become more sustainable in order to meet the needs of the community.
The grant enabled the organisation to appoint a Fundraising and Income Generation Consultant, who helped develop a new mission statement and a three-year fundraising strategy. With support from a newly formed income generation and fundraising committee, the consultant worked on several funding bids to secure more income for the organisation.
ON THE WAY TO SUSTAINABILITY
The project applied to various funders and through this identified the need for better monitoring and evaluation, leading to the development of a stronger system to demonstrate the organisation’s impact. They also improved their financial management, HR, and governance, boosting future funding prospects.
Working with a marketing consultant, the organisation set up an automated LinkedIn marketing system and an e-commerce page for merchandise sales. The grant also funded staff training in fundraising, corporate sponsorship, and social media, helping generate over £91,000 income during the project.
PARTNERING WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES
The organisation won the Social Enterprise/Charity Award at the 2022 Powys Business Awards, a mark of their success. This fostered connections with local businesses such as Moorland, a supplier of wood-based fit out materials.
‘As a business we wanted to nominate a charity that we could help both financially and by offering the skills of our business’, said the HR Manager of Moorland. The partnership provided financial support and employee volunteering opportunities, benefiting both the organisation and the company’s staff.
The Game Change Project CIC was a finalist in the 2024 Welsh Charity Awards. In 2023/24, its dedicated team empowered over 107 young people facing mental health challenges, making it a standout nominee for organisation of the year category.
POPPY’S STORY
Poppy joined The Game Change Project in 2022 after struggling with isolation and anxiety during lockdown, which had left her avoiding school and staying in her room.
Poppy initially found it challenging but soon discovered a love for horse riding and started making new friends. Feeling supported and listened to helped her gain confidence, manage her anxiety, and look forward to socialising and participating in activities.
Now a peer mentor, Poppy helps others while continuing to develop her skills. She says her anxiety has nearly disappeared, she feels happier, and she’s excited to start college and plan her future.
FIND OUT MORE
To find out more about the Comic Relief Organisational Growth please visit our website.