Agents4Change was a two-year long project set up by CSV with funding from Tesco and youth v.

The aim of the project was to encourage young people aged between 16 and 25 to volunteer, often for the first time. They were galvanised to take part by 21 full-time young volunteers spread across the country. These volunteers were drawn from all walks of life but their common purpose was to make a difference in their local area and change the perceptions of young people.

Between July 2007 and May 2009 CSV’s full- time volunteers put on events which attracted 14,406 volunteers aged 16 to 25, a major undertaking for young people who had no experience of event management, volunteer recruitment or running a project. Each event was a one-off and inspired by local need.

Volunteers were supported by CSV Community Outreach Managers who were based at BBC local radio stations across the country through our partnership with BBC English Regions. It was a bold step to devise a project which empowered full-time volunteers to create volunteering opportunities from scratch for other young people and one which set very high targets. But it has been a tremendous thrill to see what has been achieved with everyone bringing something different to the project, taking up different causes and making a real difference to their local area. It has been a reaffirming experience for all of us at CSV. My thanks go to everyone who has been involved in making this a success.

I would also like to express our gratitude to v and Tesco for providing the resources to make this project happen and to the BBC for taking the volunteers into their stations.

Sue Farrington Director of Corporate Affairs, CSV Birmingham

Current Agent Kat Pearson I recently completed my dates: Nov 08 - Mar 09 masters degree in museum studies at the University Previous Agent of Leicester and have Helen Clare moved back to Birmingham dates: Aug 07 - April 08 where I studied as an undergraduate. I have been involved in a wide range of volunteer projects over the last seven years and I first became involved with CSV through working on the People’s War Campaign on the Action Desk. Kat

Because of my positive experiences of being a volunteer I have relished the challenge of encouraging other young people to become involved in volunteering projects.

4 Somali Women’s Support Fairtrade Fortnight - Five Centre - Family Fun Day Years of FAB! Agents4Change got together to give Agents4Change helped the Fairtrade the Somali Women’s Support Centre Association Birmingham (FAB) to a much needed makeover whilst also celebrate their fifth birthday on 18th organising a Family Fun Day where the February 2009 at ‘Five Years of FAB: whole community could come together, What is the Future?’ not just the Somali community. Birmingham obtained Fairtrade City Status in 2005 and since then many Change Projects In April 2008 we organised a Family

4 Fun Day involving activities such businesses, universities and shops as facepainting, a bouncy castle, have been stocking Fairtrade products. henna, food and drinks, Splat-the- However, there is still much more to Rat, and Treasure Island. All of these be done. The event gave people the activities were run by Agents4Change chance to learn more about the future Agents volunteers. At the same time volunteers of Fairtrade and to gain the knowledge were painting the inside of the centre and materials to go out and promote it with a Children’s Mural for a Crèche. in their own community. The Somali Women’s Support Centre is unique as it was set up by and is run by Hope 08 Ladywood Somali women. It offers Somali women Christmas Project an opportunity to gain knowledge of Agents4Change recruited volunteers local cultural practices and the statutory to sort and package food parcels that and voluntary sector support available were then distributed to households in to them to improve their quality of life. the Ladywood area of Birmingham. The project involved local church members, ‘Apprentice’-style charity businesses, community groups and students and came about because shop make-over Ladywood has the highest child Young people from Birmingham poverty in the UK. took part in an ‘Apprentice’-style event to give charity shops an I helped to set up and run a ‘swap shop’ in the BBC Mailbox foyer as part of a campaign on the credit crunch. We injection of youth. Twelve volunteers encouraged people to come in and bring an item with them aged between 16 and 25 were given that they could swap for another item. Throughout all of basic training by design professionals the volunteering events I have taken part in I know I have from Harvey Nichols before taking helped to spread important messages! Volunteering has up the challenge to transform the been a valuable experience for me whilst being at university, window displays of five different and has opened my eyes to the fun side of helping others Cancer Research charity shops across out – it’s certainly rewarding! the city. Christine, 20, Birmingham The event took place in December 2007. Volunteers started work early Kidney Kids Appeal in the morning and were assessed by The biggest impact Agents4Change professionals from Harvey Nichols. has had recently in the West Midlands Anees Malik and Zahid Akhtar, working is through the Kidney Kids campaign. at the Shirley store, were awarded a BBC WM’s Kidney Kids Appeal is hamper for their hard work, kindly aiming to raise £1.5 million for a new donated by Harvey Nichols. renal unit at Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Agents4Change has Roger Wright from Cancer Research helped to contribute to the current explained, ‘We were chronically short of total of around half a million through young volunteers and Agents4Change the promotion of the appeal and the has helped us attract more.‘ collection of old mobile phones at Zahid Akhtar, 24, entered a picture various colleges and universities across demonstrating the volunteers’ hard Birmingham and the Black Country. work into the Young WhipperSNAPPER Volunteers have also been instrumental competition, ‘Show us what you love in phoning schools and businesses to about volunteering’ and picked up a encourage them to collect and donate Youth Action Network award for his jewellery and mobile phones. This has creative talents. been an excellent partnership and all the more important because of the community focus. 5 Brighton

Marco graduated from the University of London last summer and decided to Current Agent become an Agent4Change. Marco Kor dates: Oct 08 - May 09

Previous Agents Laura Rodrigues dates: July 07 - Feb 08 Jasmine Seers dates: Feb 08 - Mar 08 Tom Lennard dates: April 08 - Oct 08

Marco I want to work with other young people and hopefully make a positive difference to the life of someone less fortunate. If I can help just one person I will leave the role happy.

6 Putting volunteering The Volunteers made clothes from spare material, unconventional on film resources and discarded household Agents4Change set up a successful film goods to highlight environmental project to promote volunteering. We issues in an original and informative filmed a group of volunteers holding an way. archery club for children who wouldn’t Agents4Change Tom Lennard said, otherwise have had the opportunity ‘This was an entertaining way of to try archery. It was fantastic to see getting young people to engage with how much the children and volunteers important environmental issues.’ Change Projects enjoyed what they were doing and the 4 film group were very enthusiastic and fun to work with. We all learnt a lot and Sprucing up centre had a great time! gardens

Agents In April 2009 green-fingered volunteers Adventure Unlimited! from Brighton helped create a garden In January 2009 ten committed young space at Swanborough House, a neuro- people had the chance of a day’s free rehabilitation residential unit for people training with Adventure Unlimited. with brain injuries. Activities included getting familiar with The garden which was overgrown the woodland site, using a climbing needed attention and the volunteers wall and obstacle course, archery, spent the day cutting back shrubs games and lots more. and clearing the area ready for the As part of the deal the volunteers were community garden to be built. required to volunteer with Adventure Centre Manager, Mary Love, said, ‘Our Unlimited for their future events – with centre helps people who have had lots more fun to be had! brain injuries to gain the confidence and self-esteem to reintegrate back Trash Fashion Show into society. A community garden can help motivate residents to take part in Environmentally-minded volunteers planting and growing plants or herbs as created recycling-inspired garments for well as stimulate senses such as touch a unique ‘Recycled Beats’ fashion and smell that they might have lost show to celebrate Recycle through brain injury.’ Week 2008.

7 Cambridge

Louise joined the project having recently graduated Current Agent Louise Payn and done a bit of travelling dates: Nov 08 - Mar 09 through Europe.

Previous Agent Lydia Ward dates: Oct 07 - Feb 08

Louise I have always been involved in volunteering myself and I felt this would be the perfect opportunity to give other young people the chance, as well as doing something positive for the community and the environment.

8 Don’t write us off In December the London and Cambridge Agents joined forces and took a stall down at the Camden Lock Market. They enticed over 600 people away from their Christmas shopping with fortune cookies and had a chat about young people, society, what’s good and what needs to change. The best comments and ideas went

Change Projects up on the Don’t Write Us Off wall including:

4 ‘Don’t stereotype or judge a book by its cover, everyone needs a chance’, ‘Give them responsibility and possibilities to put their ideas into practice’, and ‘Have Aspirations’. Agents Fair Trade Fortnight Agents4Change Cambridge and We have recently started working on Somersham Young Lives volunteers ran a Local Nature Reserve to try and improve this fantastic day of Fairtrade activities at the local area of countryside. There’s so much work to volunteer run Café Project on do and we really need all the help we can get. I Jesus Lane. The volunteers ran was so impressed with how hard the volunteers all games, quizes and bag painting, worked – we couldn’t get them to stop and overran, made a short animation film as they said they were determined to finish cutting and served up a fairtrade lunch the patch of brambles they had been working on and snacks raising money for all morning! Young people so often get blamed for the Lesbian Association of India. being disruptive and destructive and these volunteers Our Street Action team did a really showed that there are some fantastic and hard great job of spreading the word working young people out there too. Thank you! about Fairtrade in Cambridge Charlotte Lowry, Greenspaces Officer, city centre and getting over 120 Cambridgeshire County Council people to show their support for the Fairtrade company by eating a fairtrade banana on film. There was also a presentation from Tracing Tea and a showing of the controversial film ‘Black Gold’ about Ethiopian coffee growers and their struggle to get a fair price for their crop.

Conservation Day! In March conservation volunteers helped out at Somersham Nature Reserve. It’s a beautiful site protected because of its rich and diverse nature and the Agents4Change volunteers were needed to clear overgrown vegetation so that the original grassland could be restored and people can use the site more easily. In the afternoon they also helped do some much needed surveying of the local wildlife for the Biological Records.

Make Do and Mend In February volunteers from Stitch Up and Anglia Ruskin University showed shoppers at the Grand Arcade how to spruce up an old outfit instead of buying an entire new one – great for the environment as well as saving money!

9 Cornwall

Current Agent Zak Stanley Zak Stanley is one of the dates: Nov 07 - May 09 longest serving Agents,

Previous Agent having been with the Daniel Hargreaves project since September dates: Aug 07 - Nov 07 2007. Having worked with a number of charities before CSV the Agents4Change project seemed like a natural progression.

Zak

I really want to engage with young people in Cornwall creating events with the support of volunteers to generate a positive reaction to volunteering. The project has been an amazing success in Cornwall thanks to the hard work of the volunteers who have given up their evenings, weekends and full days to make a difference and sometimes a life better for other people.

10 Sidetracked Bowl Jam Cornish youngsters help A brilliant, sunny, dry day in one of the save local wildlife most deprived areas in the country. In Swanpool Wildlife Reserve, Cornwall, Kids, teenagers and grown-ups from young people gathered in force to all over Redruth, Camborne and the help save the wildlife of the area from rest of Cornwall came to have fun choking and being poisoned by huge and raise awareness about keeping fit amounts of litter. The streams were and spending time making life more clogged with bottles and covered in enjoyable for kids from a poor part a thick layer of muck and the hedges

Change Projects of Cornwall. were full of rubbish. Car tyres, spare 4 parts and mattresses topped the list of Fashion Show shocking finds, as well as dog mess in plastic bags thrown into a hedge. Students from University College Falmouth studying Fashion Sportswear Seventeen-year-old Daniel Hargreaves, Agents and Design wanted to put on a fashion Agent4Change for Cornwall, said: ‘It show but didn’t want it to be all about was disgusting how much litter there them. Agent4Change Zak Stanley was. But once I started I really felt like suggested they donate the proceeds I was giving something back to the to charity and volunteer their time to environment and the wildlife that live make the show happen. The event near the reserve. The change we made raised over £500 and enabled the to that location was great.’ students to showcase their work to the public.

Wishing for water Agent Zak Stanley gathered a group of young volunteers to create water cups in the fight for clean water worldwide. At Truro College young people with learning difficulties crafted clay cups to raise awareness of the lack of clean drinking water across the world. Over 100 cups were made for the project and were displayed outside the museum in Truro. Members of the public were encouraged to take the cups away which all contained information about the issue and what they could proactively do to help. Volunteer Tasha Stephens-Vallecillo, 21, explained: ‘Over a billion people worldwide do not have clean drinking water and as a result are prone to many serious water-borne diseases like dysentery and cholera. In Nicaragua, thousands of people protested about the lack of safe water by putting their cups out in the streets. Outside Truro museum we raised awareness of this issue in a similar way.’

11 Coventry

Current Agent Balnek Sangra After studying Physics at dates: July 08 - May 09 University College London, Balnek entered into the Previous Agents Natalie Wint role of the Coventry’s dates: Feb 08 - July 08 Agent4Change. He grew up Lucy Grafton in Coventry, so he enjoyed dates: July 07 - Jan 08 setting up a variety of events that made a positive difference in his hometown.

Balnek

I hoped to generate a range of opportunities where young people can utilise their passions and make an impact in their community.

12 for more. Often older people benefit Make a Difference Day at the most by being able to keep in Ryton Wood, Coventry touch with their families or watch Agents4Change teamed up with their favourite TV show they may have Warwickshire Wildlife Trust to have a go missed. The event was a fantastic way to at coppicing at Ryton Wood. Coppicing bring young and older people together.’ is an ancient woodland management technique whereby trees are cut at their bases so they can grow back later. This Mother’s Day treat for rejuvenates the wood and is vital for the victims of domestic

Change Projects ongoing survival of many endangered

4 violence species within the wood. One of the Mothers from sheltered accommoda- volunteers, Yeo Reum Choi, said: ‘I never tion in Coventry were pampered by knew I could use a saw!’ beauty students from Henley College on Mother’s Day. The women all got a Agents Go Bananas at Coventry choice of hair and beauty treatments including manicures, pedicures, Students’ Union hair cuts and blow-dries. The event Young people got together in a provided a safe environment for nationwide attempt to break the record the victims. for eating the most fair trade bananas in 24 hours as part of Fairtrade Fortnight. Natalie Wint, 24, said: ‘Many of these To tie in with the event fair trade films women get few chances to relax and were put on and samples of other fair socialise in a safe environment outside trade food were made available. the accommodation complex so we wanted to do something special for them this Mother’s Day. It was great for Don’t Write Us Off event the volunteers as well. They were able at Coventry town centre to practise their beauty skills, whilst contributing positively to the lives This national Agents4Change campaign of women and children in their aimed to dispel common myths about local community.’ young people. Young people came into Coventry town centre and gave out special fortune cookies that had young Jamming for Oxjam people’s issues written inside them. One Volunteers from Agents4Change volunteer, Sukhy, said: ‘It was refreshing teamed up with local heroes The Ripps, to see a positive response towards the and up-and-coming unsigned bands work we were doing on the day.’ The Rrrs and Kalenko to take a stand against poverty. Young Agents show silver The event was organised by local surfers the way! young people working with Agent Lucy Grafton and raised over £800 for As part of Silver Surfers’ Day in May 08 Oxfam. Volunteers designed posters techie teenagers shared their internet and flyers, publicised the night, liaised know-how with the older generation to with local businesses to source raffle tackle their technology fears. prizes and learnt a great deal about In Warwickshire’s Open Centre the event organisation. Over 190 people informal drop-in surfing session gave attended the night to enjoy the live young people from Coventry the music and listen to talks about the chance to help older people get online different aspects of Oxfam’s work which and make the most of the internet. The the money would go towards. young people explained browsers, the advantages of online shopping and how to use the iplayer. Natalie Wint said: ‘Technology changes so quickly it can be hard to keep up and the older generation can get left behind. There are nearly 10 million over- 50s who aren’t yet online. This event allowed them to taste the delights of cyber-life, and gave them an appetite 13 Devon

Current Agent Ian Chapman Ian is 22 and recently dates: Sept 08 - May 09 graduated in Broadcast Journalism. He has worked Previous Agent as a volunteer for a number Kate Woodley dates: Feb 08 - June 08 of groups including the Carnon Downs Neighbourhood Watch, a village magazine, the Neurofibromatosis Association and Truro Hospital Radio.

Ian

I hoped to make young people aware that volunteering is not scary - it could be as simple as picking up some rubbish from the street.

14 Countywide Clothes Carrier Bag Amnesty / Amnesty Don’t Write Us Off Over 1,000 Air Cadets from the Devon Agents4Change organised the Sac It In and Somerset Wing joined forces with bag amnesty in Plymouth High Street 200 Americans from South West Water in November to raise awareness and as Agents4Change to help make a change consumer opinion on the use difference to those less fortunate by of plastic bags. taking part in a Countywide Clothes Everyone was encouraged to bring Amnesty. any plastic bags they had lying around Change Projects

4 Both the Air Cadets and Call Centre to be reused or recycled. Alongside staff put 100 per cent into the this there were loads of activities campaign to help others living in where people young or old reused the same community as them. The the bags and made decorations and campaign was extended by a month had the opportunity to contribute to a Agents because of the great response. They community quilt. For getting involved gave up their time to help collect and and bringing their bags participants deliver unwanted, usable clothes to received a very stylish locally made help those less fortunate including linen bag. children, the elderly and the homeless. Around 400 volunteers attended, also Due to the cold weather conditions, taking part in the national Don’t Write Cadets and South West Water wanted Us Off campaign at the same time. to make a difference to those who The Don’t Write Us Off board sparked could not afford clothes to keep warm. around 150 comments from the youth A total of over one tonne of clothing of Plymouth and surrounding towns was collected and delivered and is about changing the perceptions of making a difference to someone’s young people. life today. Cemetery Clean Up Agents4Change volunteers turned out in force at Ford Park Cemetery in November to help expand the cemetery , that was originally made for horse and carts, suitable for a hearse to drive down. There were 20 volunteers on hand and the work they did had an immediate and noticeable affect on the Cemetery.

15 Gloucester

Current Agent Michael McBride Mike had been studying dates: Mar 08 - Feb 09 Economics and History at Eastern Washington Previous Agent Manpreet Mellhi University in the United dates: July 07 - April 08 States, before he decided to take a gap year by volunteering to gain valuable experience as an Agent4Change.

Mike

16 Young painters with Carers Receive a Well- disabilities raise funds Deserved Break for charity To give hard-working carers a break, Volunteers took part in a buddying young Agents4Change volunteers set scheme where they assisted over about treating them for the day. 20 young people with physical and Carers from across Gloucester were learning disabilities and used their invited to some pampering in artistic talents to raise money for charity January at the Trust Centre in Barton, by glass painting, making friendship Gloucester. Volunteer Laura Thompson Change Projects bracelets and painting on canvas in 4 said: ‘We wanted to put on an event Cheltenham. recognising the important work that All the goods created were put on carers do, and a pamper day seemed sale at Gloucester’s multi-cultural day like the perfect idea.’ in July. All the money raised went to Agents Treatments on the day involved Guideposts Trust’s Buddying Scheme relaxing hand massages by students for young people with disabilities, studying at Prospects Training. Even which was involved with everyone at tutors joined in by offering Indian the event. Head Massage! Hairdressing Tutor Jane Agent Mike McBride said: ‘It is fantastic Trehearne felt this was just as positive that young people with learning an experience for the young volunteers: difficulties are showing that they can ‘This is taking the students outside use their talents to raise money for a of the classroom to practise the skills good cause.’ they are learning, whilst helping the community. This is real experience, with Roseann Boyce, who runs the Buddying real people.’ Scheme, said: ‘The members are very creative and although they had never Bilkis Moolla, who cares for her elderly done something on this scale before, mother-in-law, said, ‘I am enjoying this they were excited about the prospect so much, it’s so relaxing. Being a carer of selling their work.’ is very stressful, so this is giving me the rare opportunity to get away from it all.’ Volunteers Go Wild in Dogs get spruced up Benhall! Residents of the local Dog Kennels Benhall Infant School in Cheltenham were treated to a makeover by benefited from the attention of young Agents4Change. Volunteers helped people who volunteered for the day. paint the kennels and walk the dogs Though it rained (a lot!) it turned out to which were looking for homes at be a great day, with volunteers being the local animal shelter. We had a topped up with regular cups of tea! tremendous turn out, and everyone Volunteers helped transform its did a tremendous job. neglected wildlife garden into a safe environment for its pupils to enjoy. They worked alongside the local council and school teachers to clear the area and put in a new pond. After moving many wheelbarrows of bark chippings and clearing the overgrown area, everyone was extremely happy to see the changes they’d made! The wildlife garden is to be part of lessons that young pupils at the school receive. It helps them to learn about the environment and wildlife, at the same time as giving them a place to have fun!

17 Kent

Steff has lived in Kent all of her life and jumped at the opportunity to get Current Agent more involved in her local Stefanie Foreman community, particularly dates: Feb 08 - May 09 creating new and interesting projects for young people to really get their teeth into. She has a degree in Radio, Film and Television and she believes her role as an Agent4Change is a great chance to use some of those skills whilst making a Stefanie difference to people’s lives and their community.

I have really enjoyed my time with Agents4Change, met some amazing people and gained so many new skills and experiences.

18 Party time A delight for the senses Students at a local Alternative Young volunteers helped to clear a Curriculum Programme planned garden for elderly patients in a care and hosted a Disney party for 5- to centre in Tenterden. Twenty young 7-year-olds from local schools. The people from Homewood School turned young volunteers were responsible for up to show off their green-fingered everything from designing and sending skills at Tenterden’s West View care the invitations to making the food and centre. We chopped and cleared piles planning the games. of weeds, raked over a grass-covered

Change Projects Each school selected the pupils whom flower bed and planted spring bulbs 4 they thought wouldn’t usually get the to improve the garden which was opportunity to attend such an event, much appreciated by both staff so that the party made a real difference and residents. to the children whilst providing great Gordon Shepherd of Shaw Healthcare

Agents experience for the students. which runs the home said: ‘This garden The party was a huge success and was is really important for people with enjoyed just as much by the volunteers dementia, who can often spend a lot as it was the children who attended. of time indoors. Being outside keeps We played Pass the parcel, Pin the their senses active and gives them tail on Eeyore, Find Nemo and some freedom.’ one of the volunteers did some I work with many young people aged 16-18 who are at face painting. a crossroads in their lives. They are struggling to make After a traditional party tea of to the next step to full-time college or work. Working sandwiches, cakes, jelly and ice with Agents4Change gave them a very positive cream, the children all left with party experience in organising and runnng a children’s party bags and smiles, leaving the tired, for local primary schools. This project showed our but satisfied volunteers to clean up young people that they are appreciated and can make the mess! a positive contribution to their local community. Lesley Burnand, Manager The Ridgewaye2e Centre The big wrap Soup kitchen brings As part of CSV Make a Difference Day, young cadets from across Kent teamed Christmas cheer up with SSAFFA and BBC Radio Kent to A soup kitchen in Ashford has been collect and pack Christmas boxes which running every Thursday night for over were sent to people currently serving 15 years for the local homeless and in Afghanistan and Iraq. Amongst other those in need of a meal and some things, we appealed for soap, quiz company. With no funding, they usually books, pencils and toothbrushes which make do with whatever food has been were wrapped in a shoe box and sent donated that week. In December, to nominated service men and women however, they prepared a full Christmas in time for Christmas. Turkey dinner with all the trimmings and, with the help of Agents4Change volunteers, created a festive party with gifts, crackers and a friendly atmosphere. It was clear that the soup kitchen makes a huge difference to the people who go there and it was a fun night and a valuable experience for the volunteers.

19 Leeds

Current Agent Gemma Cross Gemma graduated last dates: Feb 08 - May 09 summer from the University of York with a degree in Previous Agents Louise Rigg English Literature. She has dates: Oct 07 - Aug 08 always enjoyed volunteering Nazia Ayub and, prior to being an dates: Aug 08 - Dec 08 Agent4Change, was involved Natalie Corless in a variety of projects. dates: July 07 - Aug 07 She’s really enjoyed encouraging more young people to get involved in volunteering as it is a great way to learn and develop skills, make new friends, benefit the local community and, of course, have fun! Gemma

20 Kill all rubbish! Street Collection As part of Recycling Week Leeds-based for Cancer heavy metal band Kill All Enemies For the Marie Curie Cancer Care Great collected their rubbish for a week Daffodil Appeal, Agents4Change and opened it up to Agents4Change recruited young volunteers to take scrutiny! part in a street collection in Leeds City The band as well as youth groups and Centre. The day was a great success children centres all donned rubber as volunteers collected for gloves to make an effort to recycle hours and really enjoyed themselves, Change Projects something they usually wouldn’t. so much so that they said on the day 4 Everyone who took part was instructed they’d be happy to volunteer again! to wash all food packaging and to save The volunteers were more than willing absolutely everything. When the week to wear fancy dress, which undoubtedly was over they collected all their rubbish encouraged more members of the Agents together to assess how much of their public to approach them to make a waste could be recycled. . Kill All Enemies were shocked to realise Claire Priestwood, Marie Curie what they had got through. Of all the Cancer Care Community Fundraiser rubbish they collected over 90% of it for Calderdale and West Yorkshire, could be recycled. commented: ‘They look great!’ Band member Matt Thomas said: ‘I have The money raised on the day will make only recycled at primary school once. a real difference as every £20 raised I have never tried it at home but it’s enabled Marie Curie Cancer Care to easier than I thought and seeing how provide an hour of vital nursing care in much rubbish we can produce and how the Leeds area. much can be recycled is an eye opener. If we can do this, then everyone else can try it too.’ All the rubbish collected was then taken to a recycling centre, separated and put into the correct colour-coded banks and bins.

21 Leicester

Current Agent Farzana graduated with Farzana Topia a Sociology degree from dates: Aug 08 - April 09 Loughborough University in

Previous Agent 2008. She was considering James Peim a career in Social Research, dates: July 07 - Feb 08 until she searched Google and stumbled across CSV. Seeking more experience in the sociologicaal field she became an Agent for Leicester.

Farzana

I didn’t know what I was getting myself into back then. All I knew was that I needed more experience, and I needed it fast! CSV was appealing because it provides a variety of experiences, testing all skills and knowledge that you have and can enhance.

22 fantasies is pointless because it is RESPECT Part 1 and 2 obvious it will not last. Trust and love Part 1 took place at Tesco, Oakham. is the of a long lasting Members of the public, mainly adults relationship. and the elderly, had the chance to Volunteers also made the city feel loved reflect on what good they have done up by holding a huge heart with ‘FREE for the community and for the young HUGS’ written on it. One girl, aged 18 people. They also had to think of a New from Rutland, said: ‘It was really funny! Year’s resolution which is in connection One guy was holding this huge heart to providing respect and love to their promoting free hugs and everyone just Change Projects community. kept running up to him or he went over 4 Part 2 took place at Braunstone Oak to those who looked a bit down and Centre where a 40+ women’s group gave them a hug. It was a really good met regularly on a weekly basis. Young thing to do and seem to have cheered people attended the group and dressed many people up this Valentine’s Day!’

Agents the grannies in hoodies and taught Bowls of sandwiches were also given them how to play Wii. It was fun, out to homeless people on the streets of challenging and definitely exhausting! the city and volunteers wished them a happy Valentine’s Day too. One homeless Leicester hit by man who was a regular in town said: ‘It’s cupid’s arrow rare to see young people treat homeless people with such love and care. I Over 300 people were surprised with appreciate the food they provided and chocolates, flowers, fortune cookies hope that others will learn from them on and body scrubs in Leicester city centre how to be a good human.’ this Valentine’s Day as part of the Agents4Change campaign. Farzana Topia, Agents4Change volunteer coordinator said: ‘It was a fantastic event In return, the public were being and got everyone talking about love and asked for their views on their perfect feeling great. There was also a serious Valentine’s Day, what love actually side to the event. The findings from the means and the secrets to a happy event will contribute to a report about relationship on a big canvas displayed how modern relationships affect today’s at Humberstone Gate in Leicester. youth, and will be presented to the One couple, who had been together local council and organisations working for over 40 years said: ‘To maintain with families in Leicester by young a relationship both partners must Agents4Change volunteers.’ fully trust each other. Getting into a relationship because of sexual My students have enjoyed the numerous one-day events arranged and has definitely inspired them to go further and volunteer in different areas. Since getting involved, a number of our students have grown in confidence and learnt new skills including ICT skills, which in turn will also impact on their academic performance. Farhana, Volunteer coordinator

23 Liverpool

Current Agent Jonathan Dean Jon Dean worked as the dates: July 08 - May 09 Agent4Change in Liverpool Previous Agent since the summer of 2008 Rachel Solomon and settled into life in dates: July 07 - July 08 Liverpool and volunteering with the Capital of Culture celebrations. The entire population was dedicated to expanding their horizons and volunteering in their communities. Jonathan

I had no preconceptions of volunteering, so moving into the sector was a little daunting, but the BBC gave us so many opportunities to work with them. Volunteers created a promotional video for BBC Radio 3, and ran a relaxation zone at Liverpool’s biggest music festival. It may sound a cliché, but I have been knocked off my feet by the amount of good volunteering can do, and the benefits it can give to young people, both in terms of experience and confidence. I’m going to continue working in the third sector, as I’ve been granted a scholarship for a PhD at the University of Kent, researching the effects of volunteering on young people and their communities.

24 I had the pleasure of working on Liverpool Students Got Talent. I think I speak for everyone involved with Liverpool Students the event and all those at The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Got Talent Foundation, when I say that we all owe a big thanks to An incredible evening of giggles Jon for all his hard work and enthusiasm. and talent took place as 12 acts Matt from Liverpool’s four FE/HE centres attempted to win the crown prize of Get Muddy Weekend at Liverpool’s Most Talented Students, Fordhall Farm £100 of high street vouchers, and the Agents4Change teamed up with chance to perform at local bar Korova.

Change Projects several Liverpool colleges and unis to

4 Agents4Change hosted the sell-out take 50 volunteers out to the sticks for a event, with Jon Dean acting as compère weekend of volunteering at community throughout the evening. Over 50 young owned Fordhall Farm. Fordhall relies people volunteered their time, through totally on the kindness of strangers, their performance, with tickets, bar and all these Agents worked hard to Agents work, crowd control, videoing, filming, preserve it. lighting, technicians and more. The Volunteers worked for hours, mucking night raised over £700 for the Roy out pigs, clearing paths and forests, Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. putting up fences, and generally getting stuck in! At night, farm-reared Noise @ The Picket food was served in the barn on a huge BBQ, and country life continued into Noise is a charity run by the Merseyside the night. The event was loved by all Youth Association. They offer young the city-slicker volunteers, with one people from difficult backgrounds memorable Agent turning up with hair the opportunity to try music as a straightners, and leaving having gone means of escape, to gain confidence, right back to nature. and show a new side of themselves. Agents4Change organised a music concert where these musicians and Dingle community centre groups could play live, and really express the good work that Noise had gets ‘nip-tucked’ done for them. We hired legendary St Cleopas Community Centre and local venue The Picket, staffed it full of Sticky Fingers Nursery in Dingle young volunteers, and packed it with were given a much-needed facelift 250 screaming music fans. Four Noise by a group of volunteers from the graduate groups performed. Over £300 Merseyside area as they took part in the was raised for Children in Need, and, Agents4Change programme. frankly, it was a magic night. Young volunteers from Liverpool Community College were assisted International Women’s Day by employees of local businesses, including BBC Radio Merseyside, HSBC, We held a Celebration Event for Grant Thornton and Business in the survivors of domestic violence, with Community, joining forces to turn the beauty and pampering treatments dilapidated external premises of the for women living in shelters, plus fun centre into a bright and welcoming activities for their children, all provided facet for CSV Make a Difference Day, the by volunteers. UK’s largest day of volunteering. Agents4Change Rachel Solomon said: While the mums were pampered ‘I am so pleased with how the day and made to feel special, the went; it was a monumental effort from children were able to have a bit of all the volunteers who have shown Easter-themed fun with art and just how much can be achieved craft activities and team games. through volunteering.’ Volunteers helped out on the day with everything I volunteered for the Remembrance 90 event, talking to from badge-making with people who had memories or stories from relatives about the the kids to giving the First World War so that these first-hand accounts could be mums fantastic treatments. recorded and not forgotten. It was rewarding and informative to meet with these people, and they were very keen to share their stories and grateful to get a chance to tell them. It was a great opportunity to get varied experience whilst helping out. Rachel 25 London

Current Agent Mir Farhat-Amin My interest in issues around dates: Feb 09 - May 09 young people began when I worked with disabled Previous Agents Oliver Roberts children several years ago dates: July 07 - April 08 and was heightened while Nawez Mungroo working on youth projects dates: June 08 - Sept 08 when studying at university.

Laurence Whitaker I would like to campaign dates: Aug 08 - Feb 09 around issues related to young people, greater youth provision and youth engagement in order to ensure that young people can access services and contribute to their Farhat communities.

With so much negative media attention surrounding 16-25 year olds I would like to be a catalyst for change, not only through my words but by my deeds. I intend to help young people enhance their skills and give back to their communities by undertaking positive action.

26 Urban youth given ‘allot’ disaster of World War II. It is a powerful reminder of how war can deeply affect to grow local communities. I’ve been struck Young volunteers created an eco- by the determination of people from garden by building an allotment the local area to secure a memorial to space in Islington. The green people who had been seeking shelter make-over took place at Lumpy Hill from the horrors of war. I think it’s Adventure Playground with the aim of great that people from encouraging more children in urban were involved and are aware of what areas to grow their own vegetables. happened and can play a part in

Change Projects commemorating the lives of those

4 The allotments will be an important people who died.’ resource for the local children who are learning how to plant and eventually cook their own vegetables as well as Young people in London learning about the benefits of healthy

Agents p-p-p-pick up a paper eating. Kerry O’Connor, Play Worker for Lumpy Hill, said: ‘Many children Agent Oliver Roberts rallied young living in urban areas in London do not volunteers from all over the capital have much outdoor space and may to take part in a day of action to not have a strong connection with make commuters more responsible nature. Having allotments where young for disposing of their newspapers. people can get hands-on experience of Volunteers analysed the impact of new growing their own vegetables is a great recycling facilities. way to get people more connected Oliver says: ‘The volunteers were really with food and eating healthily.’ enthusiastic and did a great job to make the capital a nicer place to be.’ Mile End Sporting Spectacular Stewart’s Road Adventure In November volunteers came together Playground to create a sports extravaganza in this We brought volunteers together deprived area of London put on by to build a new area for vegetable Agent Laurence. growing at this community venue. The Local sports and drama groups volunteers had a great time and the attended the event offering young community has a new resource. people and families the chance to try new sports and adventure activities including archery and interactive games. The event encouraged young people to get active in East London and raised awareness of the different opportunities available.

London’s youth remember wartime tragedy Young people in London helped to secure a memorial to remember 173 people who were crushed to their death at Bethnal Green tube during World War II. Agent Oliver Roberts led a team of young volunteers to raise awareness about the tragedy and help the community secure funds to build a memorial. Many of the people who were involved had family or friends who were affected by the tragedy. Oliver said: ‘What happened nearly 65 years ago was the worst civilian 27 Luton

Current Agent Jonathan Paylor After volunteering on dates: Nov 08 - May 09 numerous projects while at university and visiting Previous Agents Chandni Patel Guatemala, Jonathan dates: July 07 - Dec 07 decided to build on his Sarah Collins experiences and join the dates: Jan 08 - May 08 Agents4Change project.

Jonathan

Through my interest in the arts I have generated opportunities where young people can utilise their passions and make an impact in their community.

28 All Being Well Boom! Working alongside the ongoing CSV Through Agents4Change Jonathan campaign All Being Well to promote recruited a team of volunteers who are healthy lifestyles, we recruited a group producing a documentary about online of young people to set a good example. computer games for a community film project called Boom! This gives young By showing how exercise, a healthy people the opportunity to volunteer diet and a good mental well-being are and create films that raise awareness of interrelated, our Agents helped inspire local issues. people to change their behaviour. Change Projects When the volunteers have finished their 4 CSV brought together many different film, they can then upload it on to the organisations to put on an event at the Boom! Site and it could even make it on Harlequin Shopping Centre in Watford to one of the MTV channels. on Sunday 25th January 2009. On the day a group of volunteers handed out Agents over 500 stepometers to passers-by, Graffiti Workshops while demonstrating the ways people Agents4Change teamed up with can maintain a healthy lifestyle. Focus@Smiles to paint a large graffiti Volunteer Carla Smith, 23, said, ‘It was mural at Lea Manor Youth Centre. a fantastic day and I enjoyed talking to Through running a series of weekly the public and working for such a workshops young people got the good cause.’ chance to learn graffiti techniques and to design a mural that expresses their concerns. University Challenge After completing the workshops Agents4Change set up a novel event the group came together under the in May 2008 based on University guidance of skilled artists to produce Challenge and managed to get the final design. The volunteers were 51 volunteers and raised £102 for the also accredited with an ASDAN award. READ Book Project. Agent Sarah also got a local accountancy firm to dress down for the day in exchange for Sweating it out for donations to a local respite centre. Breast Cancer An aerobics event at the Luton Irish Soup Kitchen Forum was held in May 2008 to raise In January 2008 Agents4Change awareness and funds for Breast Cancer. worked with two Luton-based The 45-minute session was led by an charities (LAMP and experienced instructor and all money NOAH) to help them organise a raised was sent to leading UK breast ‘soup kitchen’ in the town centre. cancer charity Breast Cancer Care. Agents4Change volunteers handed out soup to all the people who came past. Sarah Collins, Agent4Change who managed the event, said: ‘The event The idea was to use the symbolism of was a fantastic way to meet new people the soup kitchen to raise awareness in the community, raise awareness of a of the homeless in the area. Soup and good cause and have fun. ‘ literature were handed out to anyone who stopped for a chat.

Having never volunteered before, the day I spent with Agents4Change was a real eye-opener. On the day we helped run a Digital Crossover workshop in Bedford, trying to give people an opportunity to learn about basic digital equipment. It was an excellent day that involved flyering in the morning to spread the word, and then teaching people in the afternoon. The whole experience was thoroughly enjoyable and I would definitely recommend it to anyone. Jon Button

29 Manchester

Becky Taplin wanted some time out before further study after her

Current Agent degree and wanted to stay Becky Taplin in Manchester. So she dates: Aug 08 - May 09 became an Agent4Change.

Previous Agents Becky Salari dates: July 07 - Mar 08 Toral Shah dates: April 08 - July 08

Becky T

As time has sped by in this project I realise what a great decision this was – I have met so many fantastic people, both volunteers and in organisations; lots of little quirky projects have been brought to life by the sheer enthusiasm of those involved. I am certain I can say we have made a difference in the lives of many people across Manchester.

30 The Big Knit Don’t Write Us Off We teamed up with Age Concern, Agents4Change ran workshops as part Manchester Metrolpolitan University of ‘Citizenship’ in Xavarian College, and Manchester College to get local finding out what young people thought youngsters to take part in the Big Knit. about the communities they lived in The idea was to make miniature bobble and what they wanted to change. hats for Innocent smoothie bottles to Then 20 young people dressed up in help raise funds for vulnerable older hoodies in central Piccadilly Gardens people during the winter. on a Saturday afternoon, armed with Change Projects After a few knitting lessons 30 young a huge collection of fortune cookies 4 volunteers got out their needles which were handed out to passers-by, as Innocent donated 50p for every in trade for a quick conversation to smoothie sold with a knitted hat on. gauge their views on the youth All the proceeds from the Big Knit of today.

Agents went towards providing hot meals, blankets and advice for older I’d volunteered on a workshop project with school people on keeping warm in their children as I’m a teacher and interested in the ways houses this winter. The knitters in which young people can be given a voice. I’ve produced 155 hats raising a total of found the events I’ve done with Agents4Change have £77.50 for the cause. been exciting, innovative and most importantly have Agents4Change volunteer, Becky engaged a whole host of characters, some who might Taplin, 21, says: ‘It is great that young not normally have considered volunteering as a way people are willing to try their hand at in which they can make themselves heard. knitting to help older people … Over Ste Ryan, Teacher 25,000 older people die from cold-related illnesses every year.’ Outspoken Agents4Change worked with nine Pamper Day charities across Manchester and paired Seventeen Health and Beauty students them with nine fantastic volunteers, from City College volunteered to who performed creative pieces at pamper victims of domestic abuse ‘Outspoken’ in order to raise awareness across Greater Manchester for of what goes on around us. The line-up Agents4Change. The students provided was fantastic, with a variety of first-time service users, outreach clients and staff performers, comedians, a character members from each of the women’s role-play and a novel extract! refuges with a choice of manicures, pedicures, massages, reflexology, and Project Zero Waste a cut and blow-dry! For many of the ladies attending the pamper day this Students at Manchester’s Metropolitan was a rare opportunity to relax and University worked together during socialise in a safe environment outside Recycling Week to create ‘Zero Waste’. the refuge. As the end of term approached Agent4Change Toral Shah worked with the Environmental Sustainability Anti-Bullying Radio Manager from the University to run Young Volunteers in Manchester took a pilot programme at Cambridge part in an exciting online interactive Halls which houses 700 students. The broadcast to raise awareness about idea was to get students in Halls of bullying. The young people highlighted Residences to donate their recyclable/ the various forms that bullying can reusable items to charity rather than take including text, peer and physical put them in the bin and send them bullying. They discussed the issues to landfill. The event was a great and drew upon their own personal success. The volunteers managed to experiences to explain how bullying has sort through and donate over 140 affected them and why bullying should bags and boxes of donated materials be stamped out. to charities such as Salvation Army, Mustard Tree, Age Concern and Emerge Recycling – who kindly provided transport throughout the event.

31 Norwich

Current Agent Samantha Butcher Rosanna joined dates: Jan 09 - May 09 Agents4Change when

Previous Agents she was 23 and spent Janette Cooke six months volunteering dates: Aug 07 - April 08 in Norwich. She is now Rosanna working for the Norfolk Wynn-Williams vinvolved team as the Youth dates: May 08 - Nov 08 Volunteering Development Manager for Norwich.

Rosanna

After Uni, I did VSO’s six-month volunteering programme called Global Xchange during which I volunteered with UK and Ghanaian volunteers in South London and Ghana. This got me interested in the voluntary sector and I was keen to find a role (voluntary or paid) that would give me valuable experience in this sector. Being an Agent4Change seemed like the perfect opportunity to develop my creative potential in this area and live in an entirely new community.

32 R:Oxfam Fashion Show Human books tackle One hundred volunteers came prejudice and stigma together to produce a Fashion Show Young volunteers teamed up with from clothes solely recycled from the mental health charity Rethink and unsellable clothes left in Oxfam’s store invited the public to attend their rooms. The Show raised just under living library. Rather than borrowing £2,000 and inspired the community to books, visitors to the library were able make a difference. to borrow people for up to half an Volunteers both recreated fashions hour to have a conversation in a safe Change Projects from the 50s through to the 90s and and friendly environment. Among the 4 revolutionised the traditional view of ‘human books’ were an ex-substance what volunteering is all about. The misuser, a 17-year-old autistic gay man, volunteers raised awareness about a hoody, a nun and a Big Issue seller. the local Oxfam stores along with The campaign was aimed at tackling

Agents raising money towards their national stigmas, stereotypes and prejudices. and global campaigns. The event The human book volunteers helped demonstrated and made use of the to reduce stigma, promote diversity local young people’s creative talents to and increased understanding between shop locally to act globally. social groups.

The Living Library required a huge amount of work in Whoopie for music recruiting, training and preparing volunteers. When challenging stereotypes of young people with mental Twenty volunteers took part in health problems, this was invaluable as their involvement putting on the event which dispelled the notion that young people are inherently lazy, brought the Royal Philharmonic apathetic and uncaring about their communities. Rethink Orchestra and the general public and the Stuff Stigma project have benefited enormously. together for a unique musical Oz Osbourne, Rethink Stuff Stigma experience. For two hours people were invited to play along with the Royal Philharmonic who played Discovery Club classics such as The Blue Danube by Over 80 children from a local primary using conventional instruments and school were given the opportunity whoopee cushions! to learn new skills from cheerleading They could also dance, sing and and puppet making to ultimate frisbee make rude noises with anything they and American football as part of the could find! The event brought the Agents4Change campaign. community together to have fun and The ‘Discovery Club’, organised by share the common interest of music. Agents4Change volunteer Janette Cooke, ran weekly, giving pupils from West Earlham Junior School in Norwich the chance to take part in a range of after-school activities. More than 36 volunteers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) donated their time to share their skills. Many clubs and societies were involved including UEA Angels cheerleading squad and Aye Aye Ultimate Frisbee team. Head teacher of Earlham Junior School said: ‘The children’s enthusiasm and excitement for the Discovery Club has been very obvious and many of the activities have been oversubscribed. I have been impressed with the quality of teaching and supervision provided by the volunteers.’

33 Oxford

Current Agent Jason is from the sunny Jason Martin pastures of Northern Ireland dates: Nov 08 - May 09 and joined the project in

Previous Agent Oxford to help organise William Horwitz community-based events dates: Nov 07 - Mar 08 which he hopes will have a lasting impact on those involved, both the voluntary participants and the beneficiaries of the events.

Jason

I’ve really enjoyed meeting with representatives from existing volunteering and charity groups throughout Oxfordshire. As well as making some really useful contacts I’ve also met some amazing people doing fantastic things in their communities who have been a continual source of inspiration and advice.

34 Pre-School Revamp Music 4 Charity Event Agents4Change volunteers vsited Eight bands and about 50 volunteers Shepards Hill Preschool in Blackbird put on this all-day music event in Leys. The school has several small Kidlington, helping with ushering, garden sheds, individually themed for ticketing and tidying duties throughout maths, literacy, discovery, water, etc. the day. The proceeds of the ticket sales went to Oxford charity Sobell House. Volunteers were recruited to paint three outside sheds, do general repairs and tidy things up. The children were Don’t Write Us Off Change Projects excited about the revamp and they 4 Volunteers distributed fortune also helped choose the colours they cookies and solicited views on young wanted the sheds painted on the day. people from a broad spectrum of the The event was widely publicised on community for our national campaign. BBC Oxford. It helped young people to express Agents Everyone involved seemed to really their own views on some of the unjust enjoy themselves. opinions older people have of them. They were also able to recommend solutions to overturning these opinions. Remembrance Day We were able to get a broad spectrum The aim of the day was to distribute of opinion on young people in England posters and leaflets and encourage today as well as some solutions to people to share their stories and keep young people occupied and out memories of the war. Over 400 of trouble. This ranged from cookery people took part and helped put into classes to channeling aggression in a perspective the wartime years for controlled environment such as a gym young people who may take their living or boxing club. conditions for granted.

35 Reading

Current Agent Maz Ebtehaj I decided to join A4C dates: Mar 09 - May 09 because I was keen to be

Previous Agents involved in developing Samantha Slater volunteer projects for young dates: July 07 - Oct 07 people, I loved this because Amy Cook it allowed me to organise dates: Feb 08 - June 08 events and work with Sam Zdzieblo diverse groups. I discovered dates: Aug 08 - Mar 09 that if the opportunities are provided then young people are keen to be involved in community projects and develop their own skills.

Maz

36 and Reading Voluntary Action. And as Youth on probation make you can expect with a group of hard- children’s play area safer working young people, there was little Young people on probation gave left for second helpings! something back to their communities David Booth, a Parks Development by helping to clear up an unkempt Officer for Reading Borough Council, children’s playground as part of CSV summed up the success of the day: Make a Difference Day. ‘Many families with young children use The event was held in Caversham this space to play in and it relies heavily on volunteers to maintain. It is great

Change Projects where volunteers took on tasks such as that so many young people are getting 4 clearing away weeds and making the area safe for children to play in. The involved and showing they care about project empowered the young people their local area.’ on probation to get involved and do something positive while creating a Agents safe space for the community to use. Star volunteers come out to shine at the homeless Emily Hawker, Placement Manager for Reading Probation Service says: ‘We charity ‘sleep out’ wanted to get young people who have Over 140 people volunteered to sleep been involved in crime to become rough at the Madejski Stadium at a more involved in taking positive sleep over that successfully raised action in their community and feel like money and awareness for the Reading they have something to contribute. Single Homeless Project. Volunteering is a good way for them to Agents4Change teamed up with the gain skills and confidence and can help project to raise awareness among stop the cycle of crime.’ young people and to make a difference. Lorraine Joslin, the corporate fundraiser Scouting for and organiser of this event for Reading Single Homeless Project said: ‘The volunteers Agents4Change volunteers really were After weeks of preparation, local young an integral part of setting up the Sleep people joined forces with Reading Out. The enthusiasm of the volunteers, Borough Council to help revamp and their individual creativity, made the playground and riverbank at a great impact on the start-up of Christchurch Meadows. Not only was the event.’ there keen local interest (including one The event replicated as close as lady who decided to pick up a spade possible what its like to sleep on the after seeing the work being done) street. Each volunteer was given a but there was also a surprise guest cardboard box and survival bag to appearance - the 52nd Reading survive the night. Ant Butler, a student Scout Group! from Reading Boy’s School who took Not only were weeds weeded and part in the Sleep Out said. ‘Helping out seating sanded, local wildlife was with the sleep over gives you a whole also discovered amidst the unkempt new perspective on what it must be like shrubbery! With plenty of gardening to sleep like this every night.’ for volunteers to get stuck into, the day was capped-off with a picnic lunch provided by Agents4Change

37 Sheffield

I’m really passionate about the fact that volunteering can benefit both the organisation Current Agent and the volunteer and I Mischa Lewis believe that’s why Agents dates: Mar 09 -May 09 made a difference to so many Former Agents young people – it helped Vicky Powers them realise what they could dates: July 07 - Mar 08 gain from volunteering and Annie Thompson inspired them to try out more, dates: Aug 08 - Jan 09 as well as having a bit of fun along the way!

Using my experience with Agents, I gained employment supporting other young volunteers and am very grateful for the skills I developed myself from leading Annie the project in Sheffield.

It’s great to encourage more people to volunteer and make a difference in their local community.

38 HIV Mural Reindeer grub gives Local charity Shield and over 23 young hope to children volunteers from Agents4Change helped with cancer people in Sheffield living with HIV and AIDS as part of World AIDS Day by Five young volunteers from the renovating a multi-purpose communal Agents4Change campaign packed room for its service users. enough reindeer food to send a child with cancer on holiday. Teaming up Karl Cooper from the charity Shield with Amy’s Retreat, a charity which who work to improve the quality of life provides holidays and respite breaks for Change Projects of those infected and affected by HIV

4 children with cancer and their families, was keen to raise awareness about HIV the Agents4Change volunteers packed and AIDS in 16 to 25 year olds. He said: 300 bags of ‘magic reindeer food’, a ‘Between 1996 and 2005 HIV trebled secret recipe to scatter in your garden, amongst 16- to 25-year-olds in the designed to attract Santa’s reindeers on Agents UK so we encourage all young people Christmas Eve. The reindeer food raised to be aware and prepare – ignorance £300 which is enough to provide a isn’t bliss. There are now 70,000 people holiday break for one child with cancer. living with HIV in the UK and one in three people infected with HIV don’t The event took place in November know they have it.’ at BBC Radio Sheffield’s Open Centre and was organised by Agent4Change The volunteers successfully created Vicky Powers. Vicky said: ‘Making a children’s corner with a bright and reindeer food with Amy’s Retreat was colourful mural designed by 22-year- an excellent chance for Agents4Change old Lucy Hird making it appealing to volunteers to get involved with a very the wide range of children and young worthwhile cause and something silly people that use the space. Lucy said: in the process.’ ‘I wanted to be involved with this event as it gives me the chance to use the creative arts skills I’ve learnt at 200 flood university to make a difference to HIV affected children positive people.’ benefit from Agent4Christmas! Halloween goes green Agents4Change volunteers helped to on allotment organise a children’s Christmas party Young volunteers joined together to give some cheer to families that with BBC Autumnwatch as part of CSV were affected by the summer floods in Make a Difference Day for a community Doncaster. Around 200 local children Halloween party at Mexborough enjoyed free food, entertainments and Allotments. Christmas presents courtesy of local businesses and donations at the party The day included pumpkin lantern in December, at the Toll Bar Club which making, ghost stories and a children’s itself was affected by the floods. nature trail. Volunteers assisted the organisers on the night by devising Volunteers played party games with the a spooky walk and helping with children and held a contest to make a environmental work. festive sleigh for Father Christmas out of recycled materials. Agents4Change volunteer co-ordinator, Annie Thompson, 21, said: ‘It’s often The event was organised by Agent hard to find things to do during half Vicky Powers. She said, ‘I spent the term so it’s great to see young people week before wrapping presents and and the local community wanting to making pass the parcels, so it was great provide activities for local kids.’ to see everything come together on the night and all the kids getting excited and enjoying themselves. ‘

39 Suffolk

Current Agent Sarah Boycott Sarah has been involved in dates: Aug 08 - May 09 volunteering for the last six years, both nationally and Previous Agents Joshua Seaman internationally, and feels dates: July 07 - Nov 07 the benefits have extended Jennifer Nattan far beyond her own dates: Jun 08 - Mar 08 personal development.

Sarah

I graduated last year and then became an Agent4Change. I’m interested in campaigns on international issues that affect young people. Ipswich was new to me but it soon felt like home!

40 Suffolk hosts ‘inflatable’ Young people fight HIV festival and AIDS through dance The inflatable festival was organised by In November over 200 members of over 100 young volunteers aged 16–25 Copleston Sixth Form took part in the with activities such as Sumo suits, Dance4Life Tour where they listened bouncy castles and gladiator obstacle to speakers who have been affected in courses at Westbourne Sports College some way by HIV and AIDS. They had in Ipswich. the opportunity to ask questions, learnt the International Drill and generally had

Change Projects As well as providing a fun atmosphere a good time!

4 for the community, the event demonstrated youth as a positive force The following week they had the highlighting what can be achieved opportunity to attend Global Education when young people come together workshops discussing issues related to and take responsibility to help their globalisation and development, poverty Agents community. and HIV and AIDS. There was an interactive zone for All those who took part were invited to young people to find out more about the Ministry of Sound later in November volunteering. The event successfully where, via satillite link, they joined over spread the word about how people 50,000 young people from more than could try volunteering and lots of 20 countries to Dance4life and raise people signed up. awareness of the fact that half of new HIV infections are young people under Agents4Change Sarah Boycott said: the age of 25! Every 12 seconds another ‘With everyone worrying about the person is infected with HIV. credit crunch, a free festival is a fun way for people to come together and find out more about volunteering opportunities in their area. We wanted to show that many young people use their energies to give something positive back to their communities.’

41 Swindon

At the end of my degree, feeling equipped with new Current Agent David Morris skills and the confidence dates: Sept 08 - May 09 to once again embrace challenges, I applied and Previous Agents became an Agent4Change. Kim Missen dates: July 07 - Oct 07 When I started my aim was to Kitty Stewart give people the opportunity dates: Nov 07 - April 08 to experience all they can. However in time my goal has changed. I have realised the importance of working on projects an area needs rather than what I want to do! Whilst I still want people to experience all they can, I now believe it is important for people to realise their capability to enact a positive change in the world David around them.

I dropped out of college at the age of 16, unsure of which direction to take, I then discovered volunteering. I pursued different voluntary projects, from the rainforests of Borneo to working in Kitchens in France.

42 Valentine’s Day Make a Difference Community Tree Plant Bulb Plant Two hundred volunteers came together As part of CSV’s Make a Difference Day, to plant a new community forest just 40 volunteers worked to brighten up outside Swindon to add colour and the area around a local sixth form by texture to a piece of land that a decade planting daffodil bulbs. before was scrub land, marked for By planting something whose benefit industrial development. would not be seen for a number

Change Projects Young volunteers worked side by side of months helped symbolise hope

4 with families and pensioners and they for the future. The impact of the planted over 1,500 of different types blooming Daffodils brought a sense of trees. In keeping with the nature of achievement to all that helped while Valentine’s Day, each tree planted by also helping to brightened up the sixth a volunteer was dedicated to a loved form’s landscape. Agents one. These dedications were recorded in a book to be placed on view in Highworth Library. A comic celebration This event demonstrated how a Sixty-six volunteers came together to community could all come together celebrate volunteering at the Neeld and make a lasting impression on the Hall, Chippenham. Working to raise world for the future community to money for Comic Relief the celebration enjoy. Patrick Norris of Great Western aimed to highlight the good work Community Forrest said: ‘These trees achieved by volunteering but also to will be here for generations to come. encourage more people to try. It’s encouraging to see people take The event demonstrated the many ownership and responsibility for the different ways to volunteer, dispelling environment.’ myths about it only being about not being paid to do something. The event showcased the weird and wonderful What do Youth want? ways to volunteer and successfully Agent David Morris held workshops demonstrated to those who attended with 133 young volunteers to establish that there were many different ways what young people wanted to see of providing a contribution or making change, what would improve their lives, a difference. Volunteers provided and ways they could improve the lives the music, refreshments and the of future young people. entertainment. Together the volunteers put their ideas into action constructing a temporary New College Clothes graffiti wall out of cardboard boxes in the centre of Swindon, expressing their Switch views. They then dispelled the myths Students were encouraged to volunteer that all young people are monsters by by recycling their old clothes and dressing in hoodies to talk to the public by exchanging their old/unwanted for four hours. clothes with other people. This event encouraged the reduce, re-use, recover The volunteers encouraged the public message of recycling while allowing to ask questions and explore the volunteers to try something new. image of young people. The volunteers promoted a positive view of young people and all involved appreciated having their views asked for by other people. The event gave the young people a voice. The impact of this event has highlighted other social issues within Swindon which the Agents have continued to develop, whether helping to rebuild a damaged building, or providing an activity for people to do.

43 York

Current Agent Gemma Cross I graduated from the dates: Feb 09 - May 09 University of York with Previous Agents a degree in English Lizzie Thompson Literature. I have always dates: Sept 07 - April 08 enjoyed volunteering and Emily Cook have been involved with a dates: April 08 - Aug 08 variety of projects – from Jaswant Singh teaching young children to dates: Oct 08 - Jan 09 horse ride to raising money for a social group for adults with learning difficulties and disabilities. It’s a great way to learn and develop skills, make new friends, benefit the local community and, of Lizzie course, have fun!

I really enjoyed being an Agent4Change as no day was ever the same! I met lots of nice people and organised and took part in a range of activities, from redecorating to raising funds. I hoped to encourage a number of young people to make a difference in their local community and have fun at the same time and was very happy that this was achieved.

44 Pimp my barrow race Don’t be rubbish - York held its first ‘pimped up’ Recycle! wheelbarrow race to encourage people Twenty volunteers came together in to use their recycling centre. The York to reduce, reuse and recycle. They volunteers used old wheelbarrows and collected their rubbish and carrier bags encouraged more people to recycle then reused them in an arts and crafts through the innovative project ‘Pimp day where the public were invited My Wheelbarrow’. to see what could be achieved in an Volunteers were recruited to ‘jazz up’ educational and original way. Change Projects old wheelbarrows by repairing them

4 The event was fun and informative and painting them in bright colours, and everyone who came along was much like the cars in MTV’s programme made aware of the recycling potential ‘Pimp my Ride’. They then participated of all materials. in a recycling-themed wheelbarrow

Agents race where volunteers collected paper, plastics and other materials and taught Sports Centre whipped others what and where to recycle. into shape Agents4Change volunteer, Lizzie The sports hall at the 68 Centre has Thompson, said: ‘There are still not been given a much needed makeover enough people that recycle. We want thanks to 10 volunteers from York to raise awareness amongst people and St John University. The 68 Centre is a show that recycling can be fun.’ community space in York which has served the area for over 40 years. ‘Pen and Pence’ needed to At the start of the day the sports hall help children read looked dark and dreary due to the dark blue and black paint on the walls. Agents4Change together with READ Volunteers painted over this with a nice International raised awareness for the light blue and worked so hard that the Read book project by asking people to entire sports hall was painted within a donate a pen and 50p. These donations matter of hours (tea breaks included!). helped send books to children in schools in Africa. READ International Everyone enjoyed the day, so much encourages young global citizens to so that volunteers from York St John achieve development through the agreed to return to put another coat power of education. of paint on the walls and add artwork. Staff at the venue commented that Agents4Change volunteer Lizzie the sports hall immediately looked Thompson, 21, said: ‘This project is led brighter and bigger. Youths visiting the by young people who want to make 68 Centre agreed with this and were a difference in the developing world. happy to hear that the paint was quick Students from York have collected drying so that they could play football books from pupils who no longer need in no time! A great success! them to send to schools in Tanzania. We are asking the public for a pen and 50p to cover the cost of these books to be sent over.’

Rubber ducks help pull the plug on Meningitis Ten volunteers in York used rubber ducks to highlight the symtoms and dangers of meningitis. ‘Monty the duck’ is the mascot of the Meningitis Trust so the Agents thought up the creative campaign to create awarness and save lives. Volunteers painted over 250 rubber ducks with symptoms of the disease and handed them out in York to raise awareness about the disease that is common among young people. 45 How we did

Agents4Change has been very successful in encouraging young people to take an active part in their communities through volunteering.

Over the two years of the project

young people aged between 16 and 25 volunteered full time to set up volunteering 67opportunities for other young people.

Agents4Change encouraged 14,406 other young people to take up volunteering.

Between them they gave over

50,000 They were based at hours to the project. 21 BBC local radio stations.

21% were aged 16-17

24% aged 18-19

44% aged 20-25

11% declined to say

(17% declared they were from a BME background.) k  W e w o r k e d 243 w i t h p a r t n e r s t o c o d me l m i v u e n r i t t y h e e v e n t s .

1,112 features on k We had k We had . 550 BBC local radio, that’s over r e g i o n a l n p ar e t s i s o a n r t a i c l l 66 e a shours . n d of broadcasts

k We had21 TV items. 46

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Telephone: 020 7278 6601 www.csv.org.uk