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I became a Member Pioneer because I was already passionate about bringing communities together. It’s not an easy job, but if you’re passionate about your community and about bringing people together, then there’s no greater feeling.

Being a Member Pioneer is being a connector

As a member Pioneer, I wanted to get to the heart of the community to get to know the people and learn what’s important to them. That’s how I heard that Oakworth’s Village Hall is closing down. The hall is currently used for local activities and if it was to close it would be a real shame for the community, so I made it my mission to find help.

Saving Oakworth’s Village Hall

Getting to the heart of the community is also how I met Rob, a trustee at the Village Hall and found that the Hall wasn’t registered to Co-op’s Local Community Fund. I thought this was a perfect opportunity, so I helped them with their application and encouraged them to apply.

Thankfully, Oakworth’s Village Hall are now one of Co-op’s local community causes and can benefit from local Co-op Members’ 1% community reward. The Hall is raising money towards the extension it needs to become a better facility for the community, and become the heart of the community once again.

“Having Mariyam as a Member Pioneer has helped us greatly as she is someone we can go to and seek advice whenever we need it. Co-op have helped us to promote our village by contributing staff, goods and always offering help. They’ve really helped us on our journey.”
Robert, Oakwood Village Hall Trustee

If you’ve got ideas on how Co-op could help your community, or want to know what Co-op is doing near you then contact your local Co-op Member Pioneer.

Mariyam Siddique
Member Pioneer, Bradford (Oakworth)

Read more about our Member Pioneers;

• I feel proud when I see the difference I can make
• Time is the greatest thing you can give
• Communities need us more than ever