MENU 
22.06.2021
As our National Lottery Reaching Communities funding for the Illuminate Community Group draws to a close, I am in the fortunate position to be reflecting on an extraordinary year - one we could not have foreseen and now our shared reality.
The provision of connection has been “a lifeline” for some, our online presence being “the focus for the week”, a “date in the diary” and for some their only point of contact in the most “challenging and dark of times”. The spirit of community has shone with beneficiaries able to share thoughts, feelings, experiences, and practical help and information with one another. Their contribution to evolving ideas and thoughts related to community activities, helpful learning and forward-thinking goal setting has led to pop-up workshops with https://craft4smiles-cic.org.uk, outdoor meet ups with www.findyourwild.org and the provision of a mutually supportive community.
I reflect on the resilience and fortitude we have built as a community and I am so proud of and pleased for our beneficiaries who, like myself, have had many lightbulb moments through the year. Reflecting as I am on the individual journeys, the team journey and the wider community, I am overwhelmed with a huge sense of pride in the work we have delivered alongside members of the fantastic networks across Cambridgeshire.
My role as Community Co-ordinator has focused on ensuring beneficiaries have a point of community connection supporting their journey of change and has, this year, been one of challenge, change and huge learning curves! I am very pleased that I will continue to work with Illuminate in the role of ‘Community Engagement Coach’, a new adventure with this fantastic small charity!
Our thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities funding – we make a difference together!
