Location

• 2-4 hours as a one off

Unlimited positions available

View the Big Community Challenge 2024 schedule and book sessions here.

What? This year’s Big Community Challenge (BCC) will focus on changing landscapes through social and environmental connections; connecting communities with nature through practical and creative opportunities. We have identified sites in the North, South, East and West of York, linking to St Nicks’ York Green corridors project. Routes will lead into the city centre, ending around the city walls and culminating in North Street Gardens as part of a longer-term project funded by Nature Hubs. In partnership with City of York Council’s ECO Team and the Councillors for Environment and Climate Emergency, St Nicks and the University of York, we have selected sites across the city which are key to preserving and improving biodiversity in the city. With the help of our volunteers, this year’s BCC will change our landscapes for the benefit of the people and wildlife of the city. 

Where? You can choose from various sites across the city.

When? Sessions are running morning and afternoon Monday-Friday between 16 September and 11 October.

Who? Sessions can incorporate up to 20 volunteers, but maximum numbers differ between sites. 

Community Challenge opportunities are a fantastic way of giving something back to your local community, whilst providing motivational, team-building opportunities for your employees.

They are a great opportunity to get stuck into something hands-on with your team whilst also enjoying spending time outdoors.

No prior gardening knowledge or expertise is required and all tools are provided by the Community Partner who remains on site for the duration of the challenge. 

"Thanks for a great couple of days last week, I can’t believe the groups managed to get so much done.Loads of members of the public who use to Foss regularly have said how much better it looks already and how grateful they are."

Maria Gill, Ecology Officer, St Nicks

Once your Community Challenge is confirmed, we will send a confirmation document to you which outlines information about the facilities available at your chosen Community Challenge site. It also outlines what to wear for your activity and what to bring with you.

We usually recommend wearing:

• Sturdy footwear (no open toed shoes).
• LONG sleeves and LONG trousers - clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.

We usually recommend bringing:

• A warm, waterproof jacket/coat and a hat/sun cream – for sunshine or rain!
• A bottle of water, lunch and any other snacks and refreshments you may want during the session.
• Gardening gloves (if you have them, some available on site)

Please note all belongings including valuables are brought at your own risk.

Sessions will be held at various sites across the city. Information about accessing your chosen site will be provided in the confirmation document provided once your session is confirmed.

Once your Community Challenge is confirmed, we will send a confirmation document to you which outlines information about the facilities available at your chosen Community Challenge site. It also outlines what to wear for your activity and what to bring with you.

Please contact us via emailing [email protected] to discuss any specific accessibility requirements and we will work with you to identify a suitable volunteering activity.