Volunteers of all ages, all abilities, whatever their circumstances can take part in Make it Happen thanks to the support of the National Lottery Community Fund and Historic England.
Our current focus is Sunderland, Gateshead and North Tyneside.
When people take part in Make it Happen have share how their health and wellbeing improves, new networks are developed along with fresh pathways to employability being created.
Knowledge and skills are nurtured and furthered during a development phase where people feel empowered to get things moving and change in and with their local community.
Residents are continually learning and doing during the programme. Over a series of workshops and independent work communities organise their own social action projects which are also funded and supported by Helix Arts.
Volunteers explore their community – looking at specific challenges, strengths, assets and the artforms that are likely to appeal. Sessions cover programme planning, management and coordination; artist recruitment and management; budget and controls; monitoring and evaluation; fundraising, sustainability and legacy.
Learning resources support the topic areas which can be used on future projects in the long term.
In partnership with Gateshead Council we have also delivered 4 years of dedicated artist development programmes within which includes ongoing coaching and mentoring. This has led to even great co-produced projects for communities across Gateshead.
Make it Happen has taken place online during Covid-19 and will continue in a blended and in person mode going forward.
'