We are very grateful to Saint Joachim Trust’s donation to help develop our yurt at Goodlives. This contribution will significantly benefit our Goodlives project, an outdoor growing initiative designed to support unemployed individuals as they work on their mental health and focus on the next steps of their personal and professional journeys.
I am grateful to Lesley Graffin who nominated us for the donation and to St Joachim Trust Northern UK Representative, Dickie who came to Skills to present us with the cheque. The Trust is a small charity that raises money for small grass roots charities.
The Goodlives project offers a nurturing environment where participants can engage in outdoor activities, such as gardening and growing produce, which not only provide a sense of purpose but also offer therapeutic benefits. The project is specifically tailored for individuals who are unemployed and dealing with mental health challenges, helping them to build confidence, develop skills, and connect with others. Our goal is to assist participants to make positive life changes – pursuing employment, increasing social interactions, or simply gaining the confidence to leave their homes more frequently.
The donation from Saint Joachim Trust will be used to furnish the yurt at Goodlives. The yurt is a central feature of the project, providing a dedicated space for participants to take part in activities that promote mental health and well-being. This welcoming and tranquil environment will be equipped with comfortable seating, calming décor, and essential supplies to facilitate a variety of mental health-focused practices, including mindfulness sessions, group therapy, and skill-building workshops. By creating a space that is both functional and comforting, we aim to enhance the therapeutic experiences available to our participants.
The yurt will play a crucial role in supporting the mental health of those who attend the Goodlives project. For many participants, engaging in structured activities within a supportive community setting is a critical step towards improving their mental health.
By fostering a sense of community and belonging, the yurt will help participants develop the resilience and confidence needed to take the next steps in their lives, whether that means seeking employment or simply feeling more connected and less isolated.
We are incredibly thankful to all at Saint Joachim Trust for your support of Skills4You and the Goodlives project. The contribution will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve, helping them to overcome mental health challenges and move forward on their journeys. Keep an eye on our social media for pictures of the yurt and amazing sessions we will be hosting at Goodlives!