Want to work with community groups - how do I get funding to do this?

[Iggyzulua]

Hi there

I'm really keen to use my previous skills working with disadvantaged or under represented groups in my local community. I've got everything more or less set up to promote and also run sessions and support groups.

Query I have is, which I've been asked at start up events, how do I think I'm going to have an income from this? I want to support the community (hope that doesn't sound patronising) but an entrepreneur said I do need to think financially where I want to take this.

Does anyone have any insights into what I need to do? I want to approach organisations with my services but I assuming they will have little finance to pay me for my services? Can anyone advise please? Thanks

Can you give examples of the type of work and which groups you might work with? Don't those support groups exist already.....eg. MIND, PHAB etc? Are you a counsellor? Could a county council employ you to work within a variety of towns?

If I had those skills I would first start with writing up everything I did before including contact names of ppl who can vouch and recommend.
Make it as detailed as possible.
I'd try to rephrase it so each of those can make a separate event/session/workshop. I would cost it including hire of venue (or not), IT equipment, stationary etc.
I would then put high level description of each wit ha title.
This would become my portfolio (meanwhile think of a name).
Then take phone, few hours of uninterrupted time and start calling schools, councils, charities. Ask for opinion, contact names etc.
Have email ready to give away over the phone for contact, take details to send forward your proposal etc.

I strongly believe that this is the way to start spreading the word, you can look for setting up your own stand at local events and festivals in order to spread the word.