The idea
A year of art and recreational activities for members of Active Hearts and Minds.
We run long term projects based on art, poetry, photography and music but these are dependant on specific funding from grant-giving bodies. What our members need in addition is regular one-off events and workshops to increase their social interaction and arts skills.
We are therefore seeking funds to pay for a series of monthly events, hopefully lasting the whole of 2025. This would be a fantastic opportunity to cement our place in the cultural life of West Kent.
Our members' great ideas include:
• Participative music sessions possibly including djembe
• Making an art video
• Writing workshop (or song writing)
• Photography with Sevenoaks Camera Club
• The digital world and online safety
• A dance sessions
• An illustrated talk on a subject of interest to members
• Film show
For some of these we would like to provide free refreshments and also perhaps a modest Christmas lunch .
What we'll deliver
- Regular monthly meetings on specific creative themes using a variety of different art and creative activities.
- Chances for our members to learn new skills in a nurturing atmosphere
- Our meetings will help to combat social isolation and provide interesting inclusive experiences.
Why it's a great idea
Active Hearts and Minds has been running since March 2024 and has already run two short grant-funded activities. We have recently received funding for a longer term project based at National Trust Knole in Sevenoaks. Successful though we have been so far, we don't yet have the luxury of monthly meetings which would both widen and deepen the social side of Active Hearts & Minds as well as introducing fresh ideas and experiences. A major benefit is that our activities provide respite and a sense of social inclusion for carers and their families. They are welcome to become members and take part in the activities.
We provide our activities free of charge so that financial hardship, which is known to affect people with disabilities, is not a barrier to taking part. Transport is a major barrier to participation so we provide drivers through a registered scheme.
Steps to get it done
- As from January 2025 provide at least one meeting per month on top of any major projects.
We are a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee and are run by our members who have a say in everything we do. They are given opportunities to contribute to the running of the organisation and to increase their knowledge of how things are organised. We are about respect, responsibility and inclusion. We have the enthusiasm, the commitment and energy and are now seeking help with the funding.
