Featured local group

Phillip and Peter from the Dorset Support Group promoting their barn dance.

Credit: WaterAid

Dorset Support Group in action

How did your group get started?

WaterAid contacted one of us because they realised we might be interested. We were all keen WaterAid supporters already, but found the idea of a local group suited us perfectly. It meant we could share ideas and put in as much free time as we felt happy giving to a cause we are all passionate about.

What events have you organised so far?

We organised a Barn Dance in April 2008 and had to turn people away. It seemed easy to make a few hundred pounds. We learned that people had come because they barn dances are so popular in the area! We raised a fantastic £600 for WaterAid.

What have you got planned next?

Our next event is a water-themed quiz. A local supporter has devised 100 water-related questions. It would be great to raise about £200 on this occasion. Time will tell.

Do you enjoy being part of a WaterAid Local Group?

Yes, because anything we do helps. It doesn't matter how large or small an event is as long as everyone's enjoying themselves and WaterAid is being publicised positively. It is a challenge to think of new events but getting together as a group and sharing ideas makes it fun. At times it is hard work but this is more than outweighed by the satisfaction of having planned and carried out a successful event!

What support does WaterAid give you?

Lots. Moral support and encouragement is perhaps the best aspect of what WaterAid offers. The Community Team is always there with a quick response and ideas of how to get the most out of what we are doing.

Technical advice is available, ranging from matters like Gift Aid and public liability insurance to technical know-how about disposal of waste in countries where WaterAid works.

WaterAid's website is a veritable mine of information for those who seek it.
You are right in thinking that WaterAid is willing you to do well, and celebrating with you when you do.

Do you feel like you're making a difference?

Emphatically yes! Everything we do flags WaterAid up in the public eye. Our message and activities also reinforce what people see and hear through other media.

Every person we reach is a potential supporter in some form. We never know who quietly goes away and makes a donation or becomes a regular donor. We sow the seeds and will often never know that some of them bear fruit. We also provide a focus for local people in our area who want to support WaterAid.

Every penny we raise is a penny which would otherwise not find its way to the poor people we want to help.

It's a really rewarding way to support WaterAid and we urge others to follow our lead! 

Have a look at the Dorset Support Group's own website