Young people from 16 to 25 have the opportunity to apply for a pot of nearly £1 million of grant funding to run community projects.

For young people hoping to pursue an ethical career, the scheme, run by youth volunteering charity v, will be an opportunity to learn some great practical skills.

From August to November 2007, 24-year old Manchester University graduate Rosie Hardicker was one of the volunteers who successfully bid for the "vcashpoint" grant of up to £2,500. She helped run a project which allowed local Oldham primary school children to visit a local farm to find out more about the countryside and where their food comes from.

“I have definitely got more interviews since getting involved in the project,” says Rosie, who is interested in a career in regeneration and the environment. “The fact that it's voluntary makes employers realise you're keen to work in the field and they like the skills you bring.”

The first round of vcashpoint grants awarded 72 successful applicants a total of £130,000 to run community projects. They included everything from co-ordinating a football tournament for disadvantaged young people to improving communal leisure areas on a housing estate. If you're thinking of applying though, the volunteering project must either be new or one that was carried out once in the past.

Terry Ryall, v chief executive, says the scheme gives young people both a sense of altruism and an entrepreneurial spirit.

She said: “vcashpoint gives young people the freedom to run their own projects. The skills gained through volunteering can help prepare them for the workplace by providing cross-transferable skills such as communication, leadership and project management.”

The deadline for the next round of funding is 1st February 2008.

v
www.vinspired.com