There are plenty of ways you can get involved in your local community through the Rayleigh, Rochford and District Association for Voluntary Service (RRAVS).

RRAVS is an organization made up of several partners representing the interests of all voluntary and
charitable groups in the area.

If you run a charity or voluntary service then RRAVS can help you – it monitors, supports and advises on all aspects of community care in a variety of ways, including:

Information and Advice including support services, a quarterly Newsletter, Directory of Voluntary and Community Organisations and a website.

Consultation and Representation through membership and consultation work. RRAVS represents the views and concerns of voluntary organisations to other agencies in combination with good organisation, accurate information exchange, identifying needs and effective presentation.

Practical Assistance through help with publicity, making funding bids and loan of equipment. Organisation of annual Awareness Open Day.

Service Development of appropriate services to cater for unmet needs, usually in association with other agencies and funded from a variety of sources.

Supporting Strategic Partnerships with the District Council, County Council, Primary Care Trust and other Community Services in order to co-ordinate activity, eradicate overlaps in services and enable effective joint working.

There are a host of ways to get involved and one of the best ways to find out more is by visiting the RRAVS Annual Community Awareness Open Day on Saturday28 November between 10am and 2pm at the Mill Arts and Events Centre in Bellingham Lane.

Chief Officer of RRAVS Jackie Brown said: “It is really important to showcase the work of voluntary and community groups working in the district, and this event is an opportunity to highlight the importance of the volunteer.

The event enables the wider public to see the work first hand, celebrating the difference dedicated volunteers can make.

“I hope as many of you as possible can join us on the day to inform you of the services and opportunities available in the District.”

RRAVS by numbers
RRAVS was set up in 1988 and currently has 95 members.

In 2008/9 the Funding Officer worked with a range of organisations to secure funding from a variety of sources. In total more than £215,000 was secured to organisations in the District including RRAVS.

Most importantly, if you run a voluntary or community group and want to know more call 01268 772796