For half a century, Leicester’s Highfields Centre has stood as a vibrant hub of community connection and enrichment. Managed by the Highfields Community Association (HCA), the centre serves as a lifeline for over 70,000 users annually, including nearly 20,000 unique beneficiaries. Offering a blend of education, arts, sports, and support services, the centre embodies a mission to foster a family-oriented, inclusive community space that enhances the lives of Leicester residents and beyond.
The Challenge: Building Resilience for the Future
HCA recognised that maintaining the centre's legacy required more than just upkeep. It called for a forward-thinking approach to refurbishment and energy resilience. The centre needed critical upgrades to its infrastructure to ensure structural integrity and reduce energy costs. But HCA's vision extended further: a rooftop garden, refurbishment of two halls and the youth wing and solar PV to offset grid dependency, were key elements of their ambitious plan.
How Resonance Stepped In
HCA approached Resonance, seeking guidance on their investment readiness. Resonance’s Strengthening Impact team conducted a comprehensive review of the centre’s operations, uncovering opportunities for growth and optimisation. A detailed financial model was developed, incorporating HCA’s energy efficiency goals and identifying pathways to enhance the centre’s impact.
This model served as a critical tool in evaluating the feasibility of raising investments for the envisioned changes. It provided HCA with actionable insights and a clear roadmap for engaging potential funders.
The Impact: Turning Vision Into Reality
Resonance’s support culminated in a significant milestone: HCA successfully secured £140,000 from the Energy Resilience Fund (ERF) to kickstart their project. This funding not only ensures the centre's operational sustainability but also amplifies its ability to serve the community with enhanced facilities and lower energy costs.
Through strategic guidance and innovative financial modelling, Resonance helped HCA lay the foundation for a future where Highfields Centre remains a beacon of support and inspiration for its community.
A Word from HC and Resonance
“Resonance's input into our ongoing work in ensuring we're able to sustain and grow our Centre's services has proved challenging but very beneficial, with the work completed in a very helpful and friendly manner.” - Priya Thamotheram, Head of Centre at HC
“The Highfields Centre have been an integral part of the community for over 50 years - in that time it has been a space for education, celebration, and an anchor for community action. It was great to play just a small part in helping HC plan for the future of their centre, and secure additional funds to develop their asset to the community.” – Jacob Lee, Resonance’s Impact Analyst
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