The organisation
The UK Association of Islamic Charitable Projects is part of an international organisation founded in the 1930s. They work in other parts of the UK, have schools and centres in west London and contacted us when they wanted to deliver activity for the first time in Newham.
Their focus is countering extremism and radicalisation, especially with young people.
The person
Ayman Mahmoud is helping to establish the organisation in east London including fundraising for activities and community engagement relating to youth safety.
The ask
The association wanted support to find venues for adult workshops and supplementary education classes and to secure funding for these activities as well as engage with communities that share similar interests.
Our response
We helped them find a community venue for the workshops and connected them with key council officers responsible for school venues and youth safety. A Grant Finder search identified potential funders for supplementary education classes. We helped them choose which to apply to and reviewed an initial application.
Their feedback
Ayman told us he learned lots through his engagement with us. ‘I now have a greater knowledge of how funding works’ ‘The tips and advice were great.’ ‘Gained useful insights into funders expectations.’
What made the most difference was the knowledge and informed approach on how to write a bid and accessing information about funders.
What they think the sector needs going forwards
Ayman would like to see more opportunities to connect with groups and with the council: ‘these connections are important to assist with encouraging organisations to grow as well as to work together and share resources.’ He suggested buddying up for new organisations.
As it was difficult to find, he would be happy to help with any project that maps venue space across the borough.