Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

London, UK – Saturday 25 October 2014:

PHOTOS BY SONYA HURTADO (@sonyahurt)

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Enfield.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Enfield partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Over 100 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at the Nightingale Academy alongside a special visit from local MP Andy Love.

The free event started at 1pm and included boxing, football, BMX and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The event was supported by London BMX, East London Ladies FC, Rio Ferdinand Foundation and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 4:45pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Saturday 25 October 2014:

PHOTOS BY SONYA HURTADO (@sonyahurt)

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Enfield.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Enfield partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Over 100 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at the Nightingale Academy alongside a special visit from local MP Andy Love.

The free event started at 1pm and included boxing, football, BMX and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The event was supported by London BMX, East London Ladies FC, Rio Ferdinand Foundation and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 4:45pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

Sign up for camp! June 18 - 22, 2018 at Bow Creek Recreation Center | 8 am - 12 pm | apm.activecommunities.com/vbparksrec/Activity_Search/stop...

London, UK – Saturday 25 October 2014:

PHOTOS BY SONYA HURTADO (@sonyahurt)

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Enfield.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Enfield partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Over 100 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at the Nightingale Academy alongside a special visit from local MP Andy Love.

The free event started at 1pm and included boxing, football, BMX and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The event was supported by London BMX, East London Ladies FC, Rio Ferdinand Foundation and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 4:45pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Saturday 25 October 2014:

PHOTOS BY SONYA HURTADO (@sonyahurt)

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Enfield.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Enfield partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Over 100 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at the Nightingale Academy alongside a special visit from local MP Andy Love.

The free event started at 1pm and included boxing, football, BMX and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The event was supported by London BMX, East London Ladies FC, Rio Ferdinand Foundation and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 4:45pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

London, UK – Saturday 25 October 2014:

PHOTOS BY SONYA HURTADO (@sonyahurt)

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Enfield.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Enfield partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Over 100 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at the Nightingale Academy alongside a special visit from local MP Andy Love.

The free event started at 1pm and included boxing, football, BMX and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The event was supported by London BMX, East London Ladies FC, Rio Ferdinand Foundation and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 4:45pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

Sign up for camp! June 18 - 22, 2018 at Bow Creek Recreation Center | 8 am - 12 pm | apm.activecommunities.com/vbparksrec/Activity_Search/stop...

London, UK – Saturday 25 October 2014:

PHOTOS BY SONYA HURTADO (@sonyahurt)

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Enfield.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Enfield partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Over 100 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at the Nightingale Academy alongside a special visit from local MP Andy Love.

The free event started at 1pm and included boxing, football, BMX and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The event was supported by London BMX, East London Ladies FC, Rio Ferdinand Foundation and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 4:45pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Saturday 25 October 2014:

PHOTOS BY SONYA HURTADO (@sonyahurt)

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Enfield.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Enfield partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Over 100 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at the Nightingale Academy alongside a special visit from local MP Andy Love.

The free event started at 1pm and included boxing, football, BMX and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The event was supported by London BMX, East London Ladies FC, Rio Ferdinand Foundation and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 4:45pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

Wednesday 25 November, Belfast:- Asda Northern Ireland and Active Communities Network revealed the details of a funding package close to £600,000 which, over the next three years, will support some of the most vulnerable and ‘at risk’ young people in the region.

The donation from the Asda Foundation – the largest provided to a local charity or group to date –extends Asda’s partnership with sport for development charity, Active Communities Network, and aims to support youth outreach into areas with high social deprivation, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and employment.

Active Communities Network has been operating in Northern Ireland since 2009 promoting personal, social and community development for young people through involvement in sport, physical activity, arts and culture. The partnership with Asda first began in early 2014 following an initial donation of £58,000 and was accompanied by a trial outreach programme in the areas of North and West Belfast - supported locally by both the Asda Shore Road and Asda Westwood stores.

The partnership has seen over 500 young people in Belfast engage with sport and youth programming to date, with many receiving accredited training and qualifications in citizenship and volunteering. Nearly a quarter of those who have participated in the programme have also gone on to access apprenticeship schemes and work placements.

As part of this new phase of activity, Active Communities Network will open hubs in Coleraine, Omagh and Portadown and work alongside the Community Life Champions (CLCs) at each of Asda’s 17 stores in NI* to run outreach programmes across the region. The Asda colleagues will undergo training enabling them to provide support by mentoring young people, shadowing them during sport and youth work as well as offering them work placement opportunities. It is expected that over 1,500 young people will engage with and be supported by this programme annually over the three years.

The announcement was made at an event held at Stormont in Belfast, hosted by the First Minister, Peter Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MLA. Also in attendance were staff and coaches from Active Communities Network, colleagues and CLCs from Asda and young people aged 14-19 years old from North and West Belfast who have attended previous Asda Foundation and Active Communities Network sessions and gained certificates in cookery and nutrition as well as basic first aid in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Tuesday 26 August 2014:

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Tower Hamlets.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Tower Hamlets partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Despite consistent heavy rain throughout the day, over 120 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at Mile End Stadium alongside a special visit from local MP Jim Fitzpatrick.

The free event started at 10am and included boxing, football, handball, long-jump and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The events was supported by Hornstars SC, Poplar Harca, Centre Spot Events, Tower Hamlets Council, Spotlight, Milestone, Mile End Community Project, Rio Ferdinand Foundation, London GD Handball Club, and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 3pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.

London, UK – Saturday 25 October 2014:

PHOTOS BY SONYA HURTADO (@sonyahurt)

Youth and community development charity Active Communities Network joined forces with retailer, Asda and their charitable arm - the Asda Foundation - to launch a partnership aimed at improving the employability of young people across Enfield.

Part of a wider pan-London, three-year programme, the Enfield partnership will see Asda ‘Community Life Champions’ and colleagues from local stores mentor young people, shadow them during intensive sport and youth work programmes and offer them work placement opportunities and training including the bespoke Open College Network (OCN) ‘Skills for Employment and Enterprise’ accreditation.

The partnership targets some of the area’s most ‘at risk’ young people, delivering clear progression pathways into citizenship and volunteering with those involved supported with access to work placements, help with writing CVs and gaining interview practice.

Over 100 young people aged 12-16 years old and local volunteers attended the launch at the Nightingale Academy alongside a special visit from local MP Andy Love.

The free event started at 1pm and included boxing, football, BMX and a ‘keepy-up’ football competition.

The event was supported by London BMX, East London Ladies FC, Rio Ferdinand Foundation and Fight 4 Change.

The event finished with medal presentations at 4:45pm.

For more information about the partnership programme or to get involved, contact Active Communities Network on 020 7407 8177, Tweet @ActiveCN or email info@activecommunities.org.uk.