This summer, Natasha the Co-founder of The Birdbox Mcr and winner of our SOUP event at Sofra Cafe, used her cash award to create something truly special: a day dedicated to celebrating the efforts of her hardworking volunteers.
Natasha’s vision was simple yet powerful: to bring her volunteers together for a day of appreciation, allowing them to relax, reflect, and have their voices heard in shaping the future of the organization. Thanks to the funding she received, she organized a celebratory lunch for 13 team members hosted by local food business Tibetan Kitchen, held on their newly refurbished double-decker bus, providing a unique and memorable setting.
The afternoon was invaluable. It wasn’t just a time for the team to unwind and socialize, but a moment for collective reflection. Staff evaluations and feedback were gathered, helping the organization grow stronger with the input of those who make its work possible. The impact of this experience went beyond the lunch itself—it helped foster a deeper sense of community, recognition, and shared purpose among the volunteers.
Natasha expressed her heartfelt thanks, saying, “Without the funding, this wouldn’t have been possible, so thank you so much.” The cash award was made possible by the backing of Flourish Together, Manchester Social Economy Alliance, Manchester City Council, and NatWest, playing a crucial role in turning this idea into reality. It’s initiatives like this that allow social enterprises to grow, offering crucial investments that help cover training, equipment, events, and development costs or launch new products and services.
These types of community investments, like those offered at SOUP events, are a lifeline for social entrepreneurs, giving them the resources to transform their ideas into impactful ventures. The importance of supporting social enterprises, especially within the VCSE (Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise) sector, cannot be overstated. These organizations not only create positive change in their communities but also empower individuals, particularly volunteers, who are the backbone of these efforts.
As we celebrate these success stories, we’re reminded of the significance of community-led funding and the vital role volunteers play in driving social progress. By providing opportunities for social enterprises to flourish, we are also investing in the well-being of the volunteers who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to making a difference.
If you’re inspired by Natasha’s story and have an idea you’d like to pitch, the next SOUP event is on Thursday November 14th, from 6pm-8pm at Platform 4, Altrincham Hub. This event will also mark the 11th anniversary of Flourish Together and the launch of their new Altrincham Hub. This is an exciting opportunity to get your idea off the ground and make a meaningful impact in your community. Get you tickets on our Eventbrite!
Let’s continue to support the growth of social enterprises and celebrate the invaluable contributions of volunteers who help make it all possible.
