Goodlives, a thriving community growing project based in the West Lakes Science Park, is dedicated to providing a supportive environment where learners can enhance their well-being and develop valuable skills. A project ran by Skills4You, Goodlives aims to help individuals on their journey to employment by offering a space where they can engage in productive outdoor activities. Central to Goodlives’ mission is the cultivation of fresh produce, which they plan to use for making vegetable boxes, jams, chutneys, and other goods to support their sustainability goals. Nexus, recognising the importance of this initiative, has made a significant social value contribution by volunteering their time and expertise to support the project.
Nexus, a company committed to making a positive social impact, believed in the vision and mission of Goodlives. Their involvement began with a visit to the site, where they met with our Managing Director Karen Jones and Project Lead Laura Bland. Whilst they were visiting, they met with the learners and heard their personal stories. This interaction gave Nexus a deeper understanding of the project’s significance and the positive impact it has on the participants’ lives. Moved by the dedication and resilience of the learners, Nexus decided to contribute directly to the project’s growth.
As part of their volunteering effort, Nexus took on the task of building wooden doors for a new polytunnel at the Goodlives site. This polytunnel, the fifth on the site, is a critical addition that will enable Goodlives to expand their production of fresh produce. The contribution made by Nexus is more than just the construction of polytunnel doors; it represents a significant step forward in Goodlives’ journey toward greater sustainability. With the additional polytunnel, Goodlives can increase their agricultural output, helping them to achieve their goal of producing more locally grown, sustainable food products. The creation of veg boxes, along with homemade jams and chutneys, will allow Goodlives to generate income that can be reinvested into the project, further supporting its growth and long-term viability.
Moreover, the involvement of Nexus has provided a morale boost to the learners at Goodlives. Knowing that a respected company believes in their work and is willing to invest time and resources into the project has reinforced their sense of purpose and belonging. The learners thrive in the supportive environment at Goodlives, and the contribution from Nexus has played a part in this positive atmosphere. The project continues to thrive thanks to the generosity and commitment of companies like Nexus. Without such contributions, Goodlives would not be able to achieve its mission of supporting individuals on their journey to employment.
