The Foundation’s Championing Grants allow our members to support small charities and community projects that they care about. If the member is a volunteer for the charity/project, they can apply for a grant of up to £1,000. This is what prompted Scott Ramage, Import Operations at NVO Consolidation in Manchester, to nominate Wigan STARS, a charity he has been involved with for over 18 years.
Wigan STARS offers young people and adults with learning disabilities and profound and multiple disabilities the opportunity to develop social skills through planned activities at community venues along with activities planned within its own community building. The charity is solely run by a small team of volunteers who meet on a weekly basis to provide community and in house activities for over 40 members with a varying age range with disabilities and complex needs. The programme of activities includes Arts & Crafts, Quiz Nights, Bingo including Rock and Roll Bingo, DVD nights, Discos, Computer Games, as well as Ten Pin Bowling, Pub Meals, Cinema and Theatre Trips.
The charity is currently in the process of refurbishing the community building including the worn-out furniture which is in much need of replacing. The £1,000 championing grant will be used to purchase new furniture that will help make the community building a welcoming and comfortable space for many years to come.