Community crowdfunding project Downend SOUP is gearing up for its fifth and most ambitious project yet – the SOUPerbowl – two SOUP events all on one evening.
The simple yet effective idea sees people gather together to hear three community projects pitch their ideas. Donations on the door create a prize fund which is used by the idea with most votes, to bring their idea to life.
Whilst SOUP projects exist around the world, Downend SOUP made history by hosting the world’s first Junior SOUP, created for primary school children. Since then the teams from Christ Church Juniors, Staple Hill Primary and Bromley Heath Juniors have been busy bringing their ideas to life – with friendship clubs to bring young and older residents together, a park-run takeover and treasure trail laid out in Page Park to provide care for the homeless and a scheme to reduce plastic consumption in Bromley Heath.
Children’s worker at Christ Church Helen Buick commented; “our junior social entrepreneurs have surprised us with their ambition and determination to make a difference – from presenting to the council to lobbying supermarkets on plastic packaging and enlisting support of local businesses in aid of the homeless it shows you’re never too young to change the world around you”.
Downend remains one of the smallest communities in the UK to host this form of community crowdfunding and it’s certainly getting noticed, with Founder of the SOUP movement Amy Kaherl travelling from Detroit to Downend in November to find out more.
Determined to maintain momentum – 5th March will see two SOUP events – the conclusion and prize-giving of Junior SOUP and another three local causes pitching for support – with soup & bread provided by local businesses and music from Downend Folk Club regulars Road Not Taken.
Organiser Ian Browne concludes; “to see the energy and conviction of our youngsters has touched the souls of all who came to SOUP4. SOUPerbowl is our most ambitious project yet, putting Downend and its community spirit on the map for all to see”.
Downend SOUP 5 The Souperbowl returns to Christ Church Downend 5th March 6.30pm, seats can be reserved via www.downendsoup.com