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As a Member Pioneer at the Co-op I build connections in my area. I work with colleagues at Co-op stores and Funeralcare homes and loop them up with local community groups and good causes, so that together we can achieve great things.

Protecting our Denehurst Park in Rochdale

Recently I organised a Big Clean event in Rochdale, where 120 people came together to clean up our local park, Denehurst Park. We chose this space because it’s the hub of our community. It’s also recently been refurbished, so it’s the perfect time to ensure that it’s kept clean so our whole community can come and enjoy it, especially now that the weather is getting nicer.

Bringing people together to do good things

My role as a Member Pioneer is to bring people together so we can achieve great things in our community, and this Big Clean is just one way we can do that.

I reached out to the local causes that Co-op has supported through their Local Community Fund, along with all voluntary groups in our area and asked if they’d like to get involved in the Big Clean, and the response was amazing. Over 120 people from different ages, backgrounds and social groups have come together today to take part because they feel like they’re part of this community and that they have a part to play.

People want to invest in their local spaces and each other, that’s what community is all about.

If this park wasn’t here it would be hugely detrimental to local people. They rely on this area for their general health and well being, through dog walking, exercising and taking part in group activities. It’s a central point in our community and we need to do everything we can to protect it.

It’s really easy to make a difference

It’s not just Rochdale that can benefit from Co-op’s help. There are Member Pioneers and local causes supported by Co-op right across the country. So if you know a cause or space that needs some support contact your local Member Pioneer today.

Or you can help local causes do good in your community just by being a Co-op Member. As a member, when you buy selected Co-op branded products and services 1% goes to local causes in your community, and you also get 5% back on your Membership card to spend in store*

Bev Place
Member Pioneer – Rochdale

Read more on the work or Member Pioneers do in local communities;

• Building a social presence to support your community
• Community is the knot that keeps people together
• I feel proud when I see the difference I can make

*Members earn 5% + 1% when they buy selected Co-op branded products and services from selected Co-op Group businesses. 5% to spend on future purchases. 1% goes to local causes.  Offer not available in independent societies including Midcounties, Central England, Southern or Chelmsford Star co-operatives or in the stores of affiliated retailers (such as NISA or Costcutter) that do not operate under the Co-op brand. Exclusions and restrictions apply. See Membership T&Cs at www.coop.co.uk/terms/membership-terms-and-conditions.