Giving back to elders in the community
27/03/2008
By combining resources of every kind, local people and businesses across Powys are reaching out to elders using a new and unique community-building website.
On 8 April, many over-sixties will be brought to Welshpool from all over Powys to be dined, entertained and valued by a community of individuals, businesses and local groups.
The idea was placed on the FreshTies website by local businessman, Mark Barnes, along with a shopping list of resources needed to fulfil his project. Local people logged on to the website, browsed, and donated the items required to make the day a reality - from transport, money and volunteer time, to refreshments, organization and entertainment talent.
Mark, who heads up Pool Card, a community loyalty enterprise that encourages local buying, said: “I worked with FreshTies as its whole ethos is about what can be achieved in local communities with a little give and take. The elderly have given so much to other people, and our community wanted to give something back to them. The practical convenience of the FreshTies website and the good will of local people means the elderly will feel valued and recognised.”
Lembit Opik, Liberal Democrat MP for Montgomeryshire, immediately recognized the spirit of the concept and joined the website to donate his harmonica playing as part of the day! As he said: "I welcome how FreshTies.com brings a community together to combine their resources and make local community projects happen. FreshTies ensures everyone has something to offer, whether its knowledge, time, skills or spare equipment."
Another valued contributor, Martin Hall of Owen’s Travelmaster, said: “We are proud to offer a free coach to collect and take home around 50 pensioners as it gives us the opportunity to give something back to a community that we have been delighted to serve for the past 35 years”.
The project was further summed up by volunteer Davina Poulter, who commented: “I am so very pleased to offer my time to help out on the day. Everyone pulling together to put on this event is proof that a lot can give a little to create a wonderful occasion”.
Known as the free e-bay for local communities, FreshTies.com uses online convenience to unite people and resources to produce real-life benefits. Ashish Poddar of Abergavenny, founder of FreshTies.com, said: “Not only have we proved that community spirit is alive and well – contrary to some opinion – we’ve discovered a new way to channel it by involving the abilities of every kind of person. And the beauty is, these types of projects can be built online in literally any community.”