The resources found in this module can be used in any kind of training that you would like to adapt them for – a formal training course, informal gathering, workshop, meeting, open day, on site demonstration, online training or any other opportunity for people to learn about recruiting and retaining volunteers. There is no copyright.
EVM 3 Module Content
The involvement of local communities is important to enhance the sustainability of environmental projects. This module focuses on how to work with communities and communities groups on environmental project activities. The material available here will allow you to explore:
- Techniques and process for involving the community
- Pros and Cons of involving local communities
- Barriers to involvement and how to overcome them
- Publicity and fundraising
- Action Planning
- Case studies
Amongst the resources available, “Set up Friends Group” is a link to a very useful handbook (Telford Green Spaces Partnership) written to give members the tools in which to manage their green spaces and engage with local communities. It includes useful info on how to create a Friends Group.
By implementing this module your audience will: be aware of the process of participation in community projects, have explored some of the techniques to encourage participation and understand the benefit and drawbacks of working with local communities have the knowledge to set up a Friends Group.
The material available here will help you setting up your training course, but the way you use the resources will, obviously, depend on your audience, their situation and what, specifically, they want to achieve. The resources have been created by people working in medium to large organisations and reflect the context and culture of those organisations.
Subject Resources
- Course-tutor notes
- Headers for type of working with comunities
- Interesting programme info for trainees
- Materials and handouts
- Involving the Community
- Setting up a Friends of Group
References
‘The Guide to Effective Participation’, David Wilcox (1994).
Community Work Skills Manual’, Association of Community Workers (1994)
‘Training and How Not to Panic’, Community Education Training Unit (1992)
Understanding Voluntary Organisations’, Charles Handy (1993)
‘Voluntary but not amateur’, Duncan Forbes, Ruth Hayes and Jacki Reason (1990)
‘Signposts to community development’, Marilyn Taylor (1992).
‘Getting to Yes’, Roger Fischer and William Ury (1981)
‘Just about Managing’, Sandy Adirondack (1992).