The ProHelp directory lists a range of professionals from Cumbria who wish to donate some of their time and expertise to community projects.
They come from the public and private sector and from a range of different industries.
The guiding principle of ProHelp is that members approach projects in the same way they would a fee-paying client.
Organisations who encourage their employees to volunteer as ProHelpers can use this to help fulfil their Corporate Social Responsibilities. They will also benefit from positive publicity opportunities.
Individual volunteers can gain new skills and experience from their work as a ProHelper, which can be brought back to the workplace. Volunteering within their local community can often help people feel they are achieving an improved work-life balance.
Current ProHelpers include architects, accountants, human resource professionals, graphic designers, journalists, IT specialists, business managers, PR experts, surveyors and many others.
Some examples of requests for help include:
· support with business planning
· the creation of marketing strategies
· the development of websites
· the assessment of buildings
· personnel issues
· the assessment of book keeping procedures
Volunteers are able to stipulate how much time they are willing to commit to the scheme. Any potential match with a group is discussed in detail with the co-ordinator to ensure the request is clear, and to agree the likely content and timescale of the piece of work.
The co-ordinator monitors all matches, and regular updates are requested from volunteers and groups. Out of pocket expenses are met by the scheme.
For further information, contact David Andrews, ProHelp co-ordinator, on 01900 820828/825760, or email david@cumbriafoundation.org or Roger Hart on 01900 820825/825760 roger@cumbriafoundation.org
If your group would like to apply for free professional help, you can download a form here.
Cumbria ProHelp is sponsored by Nuclear Management Partners.
updated 06.05.2008