New Rotherham project aims to "pay forward" good deeds

The Rotherham Pay it Forward initiative aims to encourage people to a good deed for another without expectation of something in return, except for the recipient to pass on the goodwill by doing their own kind act.

Co-ordinated by Voluntary Action Rotherham, it was launched with a meeting of 13 groups who also showed an interest in making it a success.

Michelle Scholey, business administration apprentice, who is running the project, said: “The aim of this project is to enable community sector groups in Rotherham to tackle austerity measures through acts of giving and peer support.

“The turnout and support voiced on the day is testament to the fantastic commitment local groups share to enable the best possible strategic interventions for our community benefit.

“Rotherham Pay it Forward is different because this is an online brokerage service on the VAR website, allowing voluntary and community groups in Rotherham, who are VAR members to express a need. 

“The need may be to market a service, borrow a van for an event, advocacy, hire a room, source food and drink for service users in need or other.  

“Similarly, it is a place for groups and private organisations who have something they are able to pledge to voluntary and community groups.”

Visit the Rotherham Pay it Forward group on Facebook for more information.

Cap: Michelle Scholey, business administration apprentice at VAR with Ian Duffy, centre volunteer at VAR.