We were delighted to welcome volunteers from non-profit pension provider People’s Partnership who joined us at our Crawley supported housing to help rejuvenate an outdoor space for young residents. Over two days, twelve volunteers worked alongside staff and residents, creating a welcoming environment where residents can connect and spend time together.
The project is part of our Partners for Change corporate fundraising and volunteering programme, bringing businesses and our services together.
Working alongside residents Karl, Harry, Lola and Lucy, and supported by maintenance colleagues Dave and Lee, 
the volunteers took on a range of essential tasks. These included shifting and redistributing two tonnes of soil from old planting beds, clearing overgrown areas, painting fencing, benches and planters, and preparing the space ahead of future improvements – including the installation of a new gazebo later this year. [Dave and Karl pictured on the right]
Each day began with a tour of the service, introductions to staff and young people, and a short safety briefing before work got underway.
Despite challenging weather on day two, the team completed all remaining preparation work and went on to plant additional flowers.
This hands‑on support made a real difference. By tackling time‑intensive tasks, the volunteers helped save funds that can now be redirected into other areas of support for young people. It’s a great example of how corporate volunteering can extend impact far beyond the days of activity.
The project has also encouraged continued involvement from residents. Karl returned over two days to continue painting, while Lola and Lucy helped finish the weeding, planted more flowers and supported the introduction of a shared watering rota. Vegetables have since been planted in two of the beds, and more residents are now actively involved in caring for the space. The opportunity to get involved was shared in advance through posters and the Residents’ Meeting, enabling young people to take part around work and education commitments.
Wes Lucas, Crawley Supported Housing Manager, said:
This project has re-connected young people with their green space and given them ownership over something they helped to create. Seeing that sense of pride and joy develop is ehat makes the impact long-term.
For volunteers from People’s Partnership, the experience was equally rewarding:
“It was a fantastic experience. It’s been lovely being shown around and see what you do, the importance of it all for the young people in the community – and being able to help.”
“It’s great to give something back but I’ve also enjoyed it for myself and my own mental well-being. And I am still thinking about work as I’m here, digging away, coming up with ideas. ”
Several volunteers highlighted the strong team-building benefits of taking part, valuing the chance to build relationships across teams while contributing to a visible and worthwhile project.
“I will definitely make sure I use my volunteer days going forward.”
“We’d love to come back!”
We were introduced to People’s Partnership through the Collective Action Network (CAN) (previously known as the RPD Foundation) in Crawley and are already looking forward to welcoming the team back for the garden’s opening barbecue later this year.
We are so grateful for partnerships like this and the positive impact they help make for young people.
Interested in becoming a Partner for Change?
Find out more about corporate volunteering with YMCA DownsLink Group.
