Festival fans give back to community
FESTIVAL revellers may have a reputation for hedonism but an initiative, new to Manchester, is proving that once the party’s over young people are more than willing to give something back.
The 10,000 Hours Foundation is harnessing the enthusiasm and passion of festival goers to make a real change in local communities by getting them involved in volunteer projects that support the homeless, older residents and local communities.
The foundation was originally founded in 2010 in Amsterdam to help local communities and the environment in areas near to dance-music festivals. The foundation has so far seen music fans volunteer more than 40,000 hours of their time to projects across Europe and now it’s bringing its socially-conscious spirit to Manchester.
The 10,000 Hours Foundation has joined forces with Manchester City Council and Parklife Festival (which took place in Heaton Park) to recruit volunteers to help renovate Harpurhey Community Centre and Garden.
Parklife used its social media clout to reach out to music fans and ask for people to come forward and help out by painting, plastering and gardening to transform the community centre in Harpurhey. The clarion call was answered and in July 25 young people got their hands dirty decorating and digging a new urban garden – which will now supply the local neighbourhood with fresh herbs and vegetables.
To celebrate the community centre’s rebirth as a ‘beacon for the local community’ a mini-festival took place on Friday with performances from local artists and DJs.
Oliver Wilson Director of The 10,000 Hours Foundation UK, said: “We aimed to unleash the huge potential of the centre with this project so that everyone can benefit, and in doing so enable Parklife fans to be a part of positive change in our city.”
Coun Luthfur Rahman, Manchester city council executive member for culture and leisure, said: “The idea behind the foundation is revolutionary and will help change the perception of young festival-goers while benefiting local communities.
“The dedication and graft the volunteers have demonstrated in Harpurhey shows they really do care.”
Local councillor Pat Karney said: “This project goes to show you shouldn’t underestimate the sense of community that binds us all together.
“Music festivals can create a sense of unity amongst people from all walks of life and it’s wonderful to see that feeling continued in Harpurhey”
To find out more about the 10,000 Hours Foundation visit: www.10000hours. nl