By Renfrewshire Community Engagement and Events Lead, Linzi Clark
Back in June, Dates-n-Mates were successful in being picked as 1 of 10 organisations to take part in the first ever phase of SCVO’s #Essentail Sector Campaign. As part of this I worked alongside SCVO to create video content that tells the story of Dates-n-Mates, With the aim of highlighting the role of the third sector in building communities, preventing problems, helping in difficult times and bringing joy and fun into people’s lives. The wider #EssentialSector campaign was launched by SCVO to emphasise the diverse work of third sector organisations in Scotland and the risks that these vital services experience.
“Our work changes people’s lives for the better, brings communities together, improves policy and contributes to the economy. What we do, and the benefits we bring, are constantly at risk if we do not have the support and funding we need to thrive and survive. The #EssentialSector campaign is here to make some noise to remind everyone how #Essential our work is so it can be protected and nurtured.”
After attending a full day of MoJo (Mobile journalism) training with Media-Co-Op, I was challenged with putting these newly learned film skills to test and telling the story of Dates-n-Mates and the impact that our work has had on members. With only 2 minutes to play with I decided to focus on pairs of friendships that have met through Dates-n-Mates and to feature some B roll footage of our events.
Huge thank you to members Caitlin McGraw, Lucy Archer, Jennifer Kennedy, Scott Stevenson, John Beckett and our West of Scotland Director, Andrew McCartney for taking part!
When the film was finally complete, Dates-n-Mates members and staff attended the launch screening at The Gathering Event with SCVO in Edinburgh (with popcorn and drinks!) It was a fabulous night and so special to have members involved in the film there to view it on the big screen!
The following day, I took part in a panel discussion with Media-Co-op to talk about my experience of the Mojo training and how important the #Essential Campaign is for organisations like Dates-n-Mates. And to encourage other organisations to utilise the devices that they have access to and showcase the work of their organisation.
LIGHTS! CAMERA! ACTION!
Here is the finished short film! I hope you enjoy it.
