Charity lifeline is doubling its reach
ACHARITY which teams up good causes in Macclesfield with business people from the town is doubling its work in the community.
Tim Cornes, from Tytherington, has the job of visiting the town’s charities to see what skills they need. He then contacts businesses to arrange for people from Macclesfield to visit the charity and volunteer time and skills to help them out.
This might be with social media skills, finance advice or practical help like a refurbishment.
He says this has never been more important as Macclesfield’s charities struggle to survive in times of reduced funding and cuts to local services, which means that charities have to step in.
Now due to increased demand for its services the organisation Tim works for, Cheshire Connect, is doubling the amount of work in the Macclesfield area, allow- ing Tim to do four days a week instead of two.
Tim said: “I live in Macclesfield and want to help my community. With current funding pressures becoming increasingly difficult, there is now more need than ever for skills volunteering.
“Businesses in Macclesfield are making a real difference to charities through meaningful skills exchanges. These are opportunities for people from the business community to offer their skills and experience for free to local charities and organisations. It’s a great way for businesses to give back to the community and at the same time offer their staff opportunities to develop their skills.
“For charities it’s a way of strengthening their organisation by introducing relevant business skills from the local community. It’s a win-win opportunity.
“I’m doing Monday to Thursday and would do every day if I could, I really love it. There’s so much more to do.”
Cheshire Connect currently supports over 20 Macclesfield charities including the Cre8 youth group and Just Drop-In, which offers information, support and counselling to young people in Macclesfield.
Ann Wright, manager at Just Drop-In, said: “Just Drop-In thrives due to its community and volunteering links, and Cheshire Connect plays an important role in supporting our links with local businesses.”
Contact Tim on 07582 240393 or email timcornes@cheshireconnect.org.
‘Businesses are making a real difference to charities through meaningful skills exchanges’