YMCA Chief Executives Network

The YMCA in England is a national movement of autonomous organisations that choose to affiliate together. The YMCA Chief Executives Network is one of the ways in which YMCA leaders work together. Matt Bird Director of Make It* Happen was the keynote speaker at the recent YMCA Chief Executives Network.

"Matt Bird led thirty YMCA Chief Executives through a workshop entitled the "Possibilities of Brand". He challenged us to consider what the YMCA wanted to be known for and to stop "punching below our weight". The YMCA is a complex organisation that struggles to be known for what it does. With Matt's help we were able to identify a number of ways in which we might start to" punch above our weight". Matt's style was to be stimulating and challenging whilst encouraging a wide debate."
Chris Hand, Chair of YMCA Chief Executives Network & CEO of Fairthorne Group

LifeLine Political Strategy

LifeLine is a social enterprise that helps children who are struggling at school to complete their education, young vulnerable families to get the best support possible and the unemployed to be trained and secure jobs. LifeLine is the largest third sector provider in the East End of London and is based at over 20 sites across Greater London. Make It* Happen has been working with LifeLine to develop its political strategy.

"A year ago LifeLine sought the professional assistance of Make It Happen in order to develop its political strategy. The result is an outstanding success having engaged with more than seven shadow cabinet ministers on a range of issues impacting LifeLine. Matt Bird exceeded our expectations, he is the best facilitator I have experienced in 20 years in the public sector and I would have no hesitation in contracting his services again.”
Ken Coello, MD of LifeLine

Guildford YMCA Board Away Day

Guildford YMCA has been serving young people in the community for over 20 years providing supported housing at its main centre and innovative youth projects based at the Plantation. Matt Bird of Make It*Happen recently facilitated a board away day for Guildford YMCA.

"Matt Bird of Make It Happen led our Guildford YMCA Board Away Day with great aplomb. He served up the perfect cocktail of energy, creativity, professionalism and humour, laced with prayer. All this showed that he had carefully listened to our story before mixing the ingredients. We finished up in a very good place to move on with some exciting but achievable priorities. What more could we ask?"
Tony Hennessey-Brown, Chairman of the Board of Guildford YMCA

Games Engagement Conference

More Than Gold, the Churches Olympics and Paralympics charity, is pleased to announce that its Games Engagement Conference which will take place on Thursday 16th July 2009 at Wembley Stadium. More Than Gold will be coordinating the response of the Church in serving the Olympics and Paralympics in 2012. The cost of the conference is £55 per delegate, however, the first 150 delegates to register will be charged £25 and the second 150 delegates at £40. Matt Bird Director of Make It* Happen is part of the More Than Gold conference team.

“The 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games provide a once in a lifetime opportunity for the UK Church. Whilst 80% of the events will take place in East London, the whole of the country will be sport focused. Churches in every neighbourhood will have an opportunity to take the lead, and to participate in, community sports festivals. This conference will help to envision, enthuse and kick start the necessary preparations for the many exciting events that will unfold across this country in 2012.”
Dave Willson, CEO of More Than Gold

The Good Childhood

The Children's Society takes action to prevent, rescue and support children facing life trapped in a vicious circle of fear and harm, which destroys childhood and wrecks community living. The Good Childhood Inquiry was commissioned by The Children's Society and launched in September 2006 as the UK's first independent national inquiry into childhood. Its aims were to renew society's understanding of modern childhood and to inform, improve and inspire all our relationships with children. Make It* Happen has been leading the development of a community campaign for The Good Childhood Inquiry.

"Thank you for leading the development of a community campaign for The Good Childhood Inquiry. Your ability to quickly understand our organisation and its supporters and partners, your strategic thinking and creativity have generated great enthusiasm for the campaign."
Rev'd Nigel Asbridge, Chaplain Missioner of The Children's Society

REPEAL Substantial Donor Legislation

A small coalition of charities - Cancer Research, Care for the Family, Stewardship, Tearfund, Prospects, Urban Saints & YMCA England - have asked the Government to repeal the Substantial Donor Legislation (SDL) introduced by Finance Act 2006. The main objection raised was the SDL dissuades major donors from charitable giving at a time when voluntary income is under pressure from the global recession and community needs are running at an all time high. Make It* Happen was responsible for forming the coalition of charities and representing them at a meeting with a HM Treasury Minister on behalf of his client Stewardship.

“Stewardship and a number of charities concerned about the draconian Substantial Donor Legislation are grateful to Matt Bird of Make It Happen. He enabled an important direct connection with the HM Treasury Financial Secretary for vital face to face engagement.”
David Jones, CEO of Stewardship

£60,000 Raised at PwC

The worlds largest professional services firm Pricewaterhouse Cooper LLP hosted the Christian funding network Cross Pollinate raising over £60,000 was raised for five small social change charities.

The next Cross Pollinate will be hosted at the House of Lords on Thursday 8th October for information about the possibility of presenting as a charity or attending as a donor please see the Cross Pollinate website. Matt Bird Director of Make It* Happen is the co-founder of Cross Pollinate.

HOPE08 Celebrated

Today HOPE08 will celebrate all that has been achieved in helping the Church across the UK raise its game in community mission. HOPE08 aimed to engage 500 groups of churches across a village, town or city, this objective was significantly surpassed with nearly 1,500 groups of churches taking part. Matt Bird director of Make It* Happen served as a member of the HOPE08 National Leadership Team.

"Thanks for all that you have done as part of the Leadership Team of HOPE08. We are deeply indebted to you for all your hard work in shaping, refining and developing the HOPE08 vision."
Steve Clifford, Chair of HOPE08

Street Child World Cup Launch

The Street Child World Cup is an initiative of the Amos Trust where teams of homeless children from 8 countries across Asia, Latin America, Africa and Europe will compete in a football tournament that will be hosted alongside the FIFA World Cup in South Africa during March 2010. Children participating in the Street Child World Cup will be given opportunities to challenge parliamentarians, decision-makers and the media from their own countries about the human rights of children. Make It* Happen has been advising the Street Child World Cup on their launch event that took place this evening.

“It is great that the Street Child World Cup will use this game, which is loved all over the world, to help give kids a fairer deal. No child should have to be on the streets, so if football can be a part of making a difference, that’s fantastic.”
Gary Lineker, Former Professional Footballer

"The Street Child World Cup demonstrates the tremendous potential of every single child, and especially street children, who are so often treated as less than human. I am proud that the first ever Street Child World Cup will take place in South Africa – and I urge all governments to guarantee the rights of this most marginalised group of their citizens to lives in which their promise is fulfilled."
Archbishop Desmond Tutu

"The Street Child World Cup aims to give street children a voice. It's being run on a very tight time line by a group of small organisations. Without Make it Happen we couldn't have launched the event when we did or at such a suitable venue. We simply didn't have the time needed to focus on it and refine our thinking or the necessary contacts."
Chris Rose, Development Manager at Amos Trust

Walk With Me

Prospects the charity that supports people with learning disabilities, launched 'Walk With Me' today. Kelle Bryan former lead singer of Eternal was the guest of honour and commissioned the walk which invites people to walk alongside those with learning disability to understand more about their lives. The walk began outside the Palace of Westminster today. Make It* Happen was responsible for advising and assisting Prospects with the commissioning of the walk.

"We have been delighted with the work that has been undertaken on behalf of the Charity by ‘Making it Happen’. Matt’s passion for quality, his wide ranging relationships with key individuals and his attention to detail are a recipe for success. We will have no hesitation in working with Matt again in the future."
Paul Ashton, CEO of Prospects

Council of Ambassadors Inaugural Event

Prospects the charity that supports people with learning disabilities held the inaugural meeting of its Council of Ambassadors at the House of Commons today. Make It* Happen has worked with Prospects to develop and launch a 'Council of Ambassadors' that includes Parliamentarians, business entrepreneurs, senior church leaders and celebrities.

"Matt Bird has offered Prospects both professional excellence and personal commitment. The goals we set have been met and Matt has brought creativity and intelligence to the project."
David Bendor-Samuel, Corporate Affairs Director of Prospects

Public Confidence in Police

The Government have recently proposed a single policing performance target of improving 'public confidence'. Crime across Greater London has decreased and the number of officers on the streets has increased so why is public confidence as low as it is? This is the question that Matt Bird Director of Make It* Happen responded to in training days for Merton Police safer nieghbourhood teams.

"Matt Bird was engaging and innovative - challenging our staff to link their every day actions to the Metropolitan Police Service values. It was thought provoking with real impact."
Chief Inspector Mark Payne, Merton Police

Aquila Way

Aquila Way supports young people whose domestic arrangements have changed in order to build their self-esteem, personal confidence and life skills for their future. Make It* Happen has been advising Aquila Way on fund raising and communication for their 25th anniversary year.

"Just what we needed – a fresh outlook combined with an innovative approach. Thanks for your thought-provoking and challenging input"
Jo Grant, CEO of Aquila Way

Save Your Home

As a response to the fact that over 100 homes a day are being repossessed Care for the Family have published a booklet Save Your Home full of practical advice for people whose debts are mounting and who are struggling to meet mortgage repayments. The Co-operative Bank have said "Save Your Home is full of great advice for people facing financial challenges". Make It* Happen has been working with Care for the Family to develop the project, secure public endorsement and distribution opportunities.

"Thanks Matt. You gave our 'Save Your Home' campaign a great start - great ideas, great contacts - great results. Thank you."
Rob Parsons, Chairman of Care for the Family

Prime Minister Recognises Hope08

The Prime Minister hosted Hope08 representatives at a Christmas reception at 10 Downing Street this morning, in recognition of all Hope08 has accomplished throughout the UK this year. Matt Bird member of the Hope08 National Leadership Team wrote to the Prime Minister suggesting that a Christmas reception be hosted at 10 Downing Street to affirm the Christian festival which in recent years some public figures have attempted to push out of the public square, this event is the result of that conversation.

“People of faith have been at the heart of just about every social movement that has transformed society in this country, from the abolition of slavery through to Make Poverty History. I applaud all those involved in Hope08"
Rt Hon Gordon Brown MP, Prime Minister

Chief Executive Announced

More Than Gold the Churches 2012 Olympics and Paralympics charity is delighted to announce the appointment of its Chief Executive David Willson. David has extensive global experience of coordinating the Church in its response to major sporting events. Make It* Happen is advising More Than Gold on its strategic positioning and planning.

"I thank and congratulate the churches on coming together in support of Olympic and sporting values once more."
Rt Hon Tessa Jowell, Minister for the Olympics

"More Than Gold will bring together Christians from across the country, enabling us to offer united service and welcome when Britain plays host to the world in 2012.”
Most Rev Dr Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury

Parental Advice on Video Gaming

Ask About Games has recently published 'The Good Gaming Guide: A Parents Guide to Video Games' and also in partnership with Care for the Family 'Computer Games: How to Help Your Kids Play Safely'. Make It* Happen has been developing partnerships to help with the distribution of these information resources for parents, guardians and youth leaders.

Live the Dream 2008

Matt Bird recently spoke at the business summit ‘Live the Dream’ at East London University on the subject of ‘Networking for Business Success’. Matt commented “Networking is an awful phrase however building long-term relationships for mutual benefit is what makes the world go round”. His seminar explored:

i) Relationship Philosophy – "Long-term Mutually Beneficial Relationships"
ii) Relationship Business - Big Office, Staff and Overheads?
iii) Relationship Strategy - Collecting, Keeping & Promoting Friends!
iv) Relationship Skills - Entering, Engaging & Exiting Conversations...

“Matt Bird can certainly make it happen and has done for iCan. He is extremely perceptive and resourceful, making it easy to explain your vision and goals. I strongly recommend Make It Happen as an indispensable resource for your business”
Wayne Malcolm, Conference Host & Director of iCan Coaching Network

YMCA England Board

YMCA England represents 130 YMCAs supporting young people at every stage of their lives by providing housing, training, fitness facilities and services to their families. Matt Bird the Director of Make It* Happen has joined the Board of YMCA England following their AGM today.

"YMCA England is an incredible movement through which faith in action positively impacts lives and communities across our country. It is my privilege to serve in this way."
Matt Bird

“We are thrilled Matt has joined our team. Matt offers highly focused entrepreneurial insight and skills alongside unique communications experience.”
Ian Green, National Secretary of YMCA England

Trailblazers

Trailblazers organises sponsored challenges for a charities of all sizes to help them raise funding for their particular cause. Once a charity registers to run a sponsored challenge all they have to do is fill the trip with their supporters and Trailblazers will do the rest! Make It* Happen recently advised the board on their strategic development.

Barclays helps raise £95,000 for Christian Charities

Cross Pollinate the Christian funding network was hosted this evening at Barclays Wealth, Mayfair. Over 50 generous hearted people heard passionate presentations from five charities after which an anonymous pledging session resulted in promises of over £95,000. The next Cross Pollinate will be on Thursday 26th March 2009 at Pricewaterhouse Cooper LLP, Embankment Place. For more information contact Make It* Happen.

“Matt Bird has been a huge help in making Cross Pollinate a reality, with his eye for detail, project management skills and great contacts.”
Ian Wilkins, Co-Founder Cross Pollinate

HOPE08 branding

HOPE08 mobilised groups of churches 1,500 villages, towns and cities to 'raise their game' in community service and mission. Make It* Happen was involved in the national branding and positioning of HOPE08.

"The development of the HOPE08 brand was a wonderfully relational and creative process. We felt heard and the resulting design captured the vision and values we aspire to." Steve Clifford, Chair of HOPE08

Coming Together For Good

Samaritans Purse are doing more than changing the way they look, check out... Coming Together For Good

"Make It Happen and ABA Design have worked with us at a strategic level to re-position the Samaritan’s Purse brand and develop innovative and engaging campaigns that are opening up new markets and driving income growth. Above all both MIH and ABA are a delight and pleasure to work with in that they bring a refreshingly professional and relational approach to all that they do."
Simon Barrington, CEO of Samaritans Purse UK

Life Change Foundation

Guildford YMCA provides youth services across north east Surrey including a half way hostel, youth cafe and engaging youth activities and projects. The Chief Executive Pete Brayne says "People is what we're about! We come in all shapes and sizes. We all have needs, some have more than others, but we all want to belong and feel a little special to someone". Make It* Happen has advised Guildford YMCA on the development of their fund raising strategy for their Life Change Foundation.

"Matt Bird brings a wealth of experience and a lot of skill. He has helped us to focus on our key fund raising markets and the opportunities they afford. We look forward to reaping the benefits of our investment in Matt's time."
Pete Brayne, CEO of Guildford YMCA

A Force For Good

"Computer games can help children make friends, forge closer relationships with adults, and have a positive impact on their lives." This was the conclusion of church and charity leaders taking part in a panel discussion hosted by The Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association (ELSPA) at BAFTA in Central London on how computer games can be a force for good in today’s society. The discussion, chaired by journalist Mary Riddell, included experts from children’s, religious and computer games groups, including: Martin Houghton-Brown deputy director of new business The Children’s Society, Mike Royal national director The Lighthouse Group, Rev Joseph Steinberg marketing & fund raising director CMS and Andy Payne chairman of ELSPA.

"ELSPA has engaged Matt Bird to work on a number of projects. He has been an asset to our efforts to embrace good causes and we have found him diligent and thorough to work with. We hope to work with him again in the near future."
Tim Wapshott, Communications Director ELSPA

Global Day of Prayer

Global Day of Prayer (GDOP) is a movement of Christians from different cultures and denomination, in over 214 countries, who are praying good for the world. GDOP UK hosts annual events which have taken place at venues across Greater London at football stadiums such as Millwall. Make It* Happen recently advised the Board of GDOP on their strategic direction.

"Matt’s clear and articulate delivery to our core team helped to dissect our challenges and incise a precise solution. Make it Happen does exactly what it says on the tin!"
Dr Jonathan Oloyede, Convener Global Day of Prayer London

Leadership Breakfast

Matt Bird Director of Make It* Happen recently spoke at a breakfast for civic leaders in West London on the subject of leadership. The key messages from his address are summarised here:

Leadership is a seven letter word 'Results'! Seven Letter Leaders:
1) 'Know what they want' - they have a clarity of purpose
2) 'Say what they do' - they communicate infectiously
3) 'Do what they say' - they are utterly reliable
4) 'Make a way when there appears no way' - they innovate and create opportunities
5) 'Know a man (or woman) who can' - they achieve through a connected web of symbiotic relationships
6) 'Keep on keeping on' - they persist even in the face of failure

"Really great to hear you speaking this morning at the business Breakfast. All of it made perfect sense - it's all about going back to basics! I think I'm one of the 'bred' leaders - so I need to be taught... and re-taught how to lead effectively. Shame it doesn't come naturally to me....!!"
Attendee

Tearfund

Tearfund is a Christian relief and development agency working with a global network of local churches to help eradicate poverty. Their ten-year vision is to see 50 million people released from material and spiritual poverty through a worldwide network of 100,000 local churches. Make It* Happen advised Tearfund's communications department.

"Matt was only given one week to respond to a challenging brief, and was able to present back insightful and challenging ideas that we will definitely be able to take forward."
Paul Brigham, UK Director Tearfund

Bear Grylls

Bear Grylls is a man who has always loved adventure. After breaking his back in three places in a parachuting accident, he fought his way to recovery, and two years later entered the Guinness Book of Records as the youngest Briton to climb Mount Everest, aged only 23. He has since led ground-breaking expeditions across the world. Make It* Happen recently secured Bear Grylls endorsement of a leading outdoor gadgets business and Bear received a box of whizzy outdoor technology!

"Got the kit - thank you so much"
Bear Grylls

Computer Game Certification

ELSPA represents the British computer and video games industry with a membership of over 60 companies including almost all the major companies concerned with the publishing and distribution of interactive leisure and entertainment software in the UK. Following the Government commissioned Byron Review ELSPA is promoting better understanding of game certification to empower parents and guardians to make good decisions about the responsible environment they create in which children play video games. Make It* Happen is advising ELSPA on engagement with the voluntary community sector.

John Bird opens TLG London

John Bird, the founder of The Big Issue, opened The Lighthouse Group centre in South London which provides alternative education for young people who have been thrown out of school. The Lighthouse Group also has centres in Bradford and Birmingham and is due to open a new centre in Manchester this autumn. Over 90% of the young people who participate in The Lighthouse Group re-engage in mainstream education within one or two terms. Make It* Happen secured John Bird as a speaker for this event who as a young person was excluded from school.

“It was a real lack of belief in the power of education that held me back... One of the things we need to do with our children and parents is get behind them…support them, show them by example what can be done when you actually get the chance of using education."
Dr John Bird MBE

Members of Parliament Slum It!

On 15th and 16th July Andy Reed MP, David Burrowes MP and Tim Farron MP undertook Slum Survivor for 24 hours in central Westminster. Slum Survivor is a slum simulation experience where participants build a dwelling to sleep in over night over, cook and live off lentil dhal and walk 4 miles to collect their water. Slum Survivor is a Soul Action project which is a partnership between Tearfund and Soul Survivor. The objective provide an opportunity for people to empathise with and raise awareness of the 1 billion people who live under chronic poverty in slums around the world. Make It* Happen designed and managed the event.

View the Slum Survivor EDM and The Times Political Sketch

"I commend those taking part in Slum Survivor events, not only for their willingness to getting closer to understanding the stark and desperate conditions that so many face, but in raising much needed funds and public awareness for those for whom this life is daily reality. My prayers are with them, and with the true slum survivors, as they struggle to find dignity. hope and nourishment in the midst of deprivation."
Most Rev Dr Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury

"I believe Slum Survivor is invaluable in educating and informing young people about the challenges that exist, no just in our country but in our world. The Slum Survivor experience is incredibly educationally important."
Shahid Malik MP, DFID Minister

"Make it Happen really made this happen for us! Matt Bird helped translate an innovative youth project into a totally different setting connecting us to the world of politics and media. From program design, to implementation and the connections with the right people Make it Happen were an essential partner in the success of this project"
David Westlake, Soul Action Director and Tearfund Integral Mission Director

Cross Pollinate Raises £100,000

The inaugural event of Cross Pollinate hosted by private bank Coutts & Co. on the evening of Tuesday 8th July raised over £100,000 for social change projects. Cross Pollinate is a funding network whose twin objectives are to encourage generous hearted people to be intuitive and communal in their approach to giving and to help funds reach social change projects, particularly small charities who may lack the time and know how to extend their income. Each of the six selected charities had 6 minutes to explain ‘What they could they achieve with £5,000’ and 6 minutes to take questions from the audience of over 60 philanthropists. Towards the end of the evening guests had the opportunity to pledge anonymously to any of the charitable causes. Cross Pollinate is the joint initiative of Matt Bird of Make It* Happen and Ian Wilkins of Alvor Charitable Trust who commented “Our hope is to encourage a new wave of Christian philanthropy and to see hundreds of amazing community based Christian charities resourced with more funding”

“Matt Bird & the team at Make It Happen have done what it says on the tin – they helped take the germ of an idea for Cross Pollinate, and a few months later it happened!”
Ian Wilkins, Co-Founder

Police Communications Review

Barking & Dagenham Police is one of the Metropolitan Police Service's thirty-three London Borough Command Units paralleling those of the Local Authorities. Unemployment in the Borough runs at about 9.4% of the available workforce, this is higher than the national average of 4.5%. This is due mainly to the decline in manufacturing, production and construction industries. At the same time there has been an increase in the proportion of women in the labour force but they are generally found in the poorly paid service sector (2001 Census). Make It* Happen recently completed an internal communications review for Barking & Dagenham Police.

"The communication structures of large organisations need careful and critical review to ensure they operate successfully. The brief I gave to Make It Happen when I commissioned their services’ was to apply their experience and specialist knowledge in order to give me a new perspective on how to communicate more effectively. The result of this review, and more importantly Matt Bird's recommendations, were fresh and challenging. Make It Happen has added real value to way my team and I now do business. A highly professional, different and inspiring piece of work."
Chief Superintendent Anthony Eastaugh, Borough Commander Barking & Dagenham

90% Success Rate

The Lighthouse Group achieves a 90% success rate in providing alternative education for excluded young people and re-integrating them into mainstream education within one or two terms. The young people with whom The Lighthouse Group works are often victims of social breakdown. They experience a wide range of issues such as family separation, bereavement, drug and alcohol abuse, bullying, poverty, gang culture and many other distressing circumstances. The Lighthouse Group provides these young people with a second chance. Make It Happen has just completed a annual review of The Lighthouse Group communications and fund raising strategy.

"Matt's support really brought the best from our team, with a relaxed yet focused approach to reviewing our communications and fundraising. His specialist perspective and understanding of the third sector represent real added value at a time when The Lighthouse Group vision is progressing quickly."
Tim Morfin, CEO The Lighthouse Group

Christian Aid team

Christian Aid is one the of UKs largest international development NGOs who 'stand with the world's poorest people to bring poverty and injustice to an end - regardless of faith or ethnicity'. Today Make It Happen facilitated a team communications day for Christian Aid Major Gift Unit.

"Make It Happen’s experience with faith based organisations as well as corporate clients makes for a powerful combination – professional and insightful. The depth of analysis far exceeded our expectations. Everyone left smiling - with a greater self awareness and a heightened appreciation for the diversity of the whole team. Doing this was probably the best decision I have taken as a manager."
Mark Rowland, Head of Christian Aid Major Gift Unit

Turn on the Tap Walk

Today David Drew MP, Alistair Burt MP, Michael Moore MP, Bishops and school children walked a symbolic 4 miles from the House of Commons to Hyde Park and back. The walk represents the average distance walked in the developing world each day to collect water and to raise awareness that over 1 billion people worldwide do not have access to safe water and consequently water-related diseases are the second biggest killer of children worldwide. Make It* Happen organised the Turn on the Tap walk.

"I have been impressed by your professionalism, integrity, network and ability to deliver a major event in the history of Samaritan's Purse. Your commitment, enthusiasm and attention for detail certainly ensured we got it right and I have had nothing but excellent feedback from my staff, board and supporters."
Simon Barrington, CEO of Samaritan's Purse

Largest YMCA in Europe

Kingston & Wimbledon YMCA is a community based organisation working in South West London and Surrey with a particular focus on young people. It is the largest local YMCA in Europe. Matt Bird is a Patron of KWYMCA and was recently asked to contribute a recipe (above) to their Annual Report. Make It* Happen recently completed a strategic communications review for Kingston & Wimbledon YMCA.

“Make It Happen has recently assisted us in undertaking a strategic review of our publicity and marketing activities. As a charitable organisation we need to ensure that we are communicating our values and ethos in an open and constructive way so that we can bring changes to the communities that we serve. Matt Bird undertook the review with passion and energy, engaging constructively with staff members and stakeholders – the recommendations from the review were clear and fit for purpose and Matt is assisting us with their implementation. A job well done!”
Ian Green, CEO of Kingston & Wimbledon YMCA

FaithAction conference

FaithAction is a network for faith based organisations delivering public services that is funded by the Cabinet Office. FaithAction's national conference 'Money Well Spent' will be on Tuesday 26th February 2008 at Westminster Central Hall. Rt Hon Stephen Timms MP, Labour Party Vice Chair for Faith Liaison is the key note speaker together with seminars from third sector procurement leads from eight Government Departments. Make It* Happen managed the FaithAction conference.

"Make It Happen managed the inaugural conference for FaithAction the network of faith based organisations delivering public services sponsored by the Cabinet Office. Matt Bird provided the key government representatives and designed a programme which made the day stimulating and productive for the delegates, who even now continue to feedback positively about the event."
Daniel Singleton, Executive Director of FaithAction

Highlands Hotel Strategic Review

Highlands Hotel in Jersey aims to provide excellence in Christian hospitality. Make It* Happen recently completed a strategic organisational review for Highlands Hotel.

"I am most grateful to Make It Happen for having undertaken a Strategic Review of Highlands Hotel Ltd, within the agreed time schedule and cost. Highlands Hotel offers a unique Christian Ministry and at all times during the Review the Directors felt confident that Christian principles underpinned the methodology and critical assessment of all the key issues which were being examined. The analysis and recommendations were clearly communicated and have provided the Company with a sound basis on which to make decisions for the future."
Jean Le Maistre, Chairman of Highlands Hotel

'Love of Justice'

CLEAR aims to demonstrate God’s character through his love of justice by partnering with Christian Lawyers in the developing world to deliver legal education, aid and research on behalf of the poor. It is the International arm of the Lawyers Christian Fellowship. Make It* Happen is currently undertaking an organisational review for CLEAR International.

"Matt Bird's input to the process of our strategic review and business plan was energising for me personally and uniting for the Board. The result is less valuable time being wasted on repetition of rationale for action and more focus on meeting targets."
Christine Johns, Director of CLEAR International

Government endorse HOPE08

The Department for Communities and Local Government have expressed their wholehearted support for HOPE08. Matt Bird is a member of the National Leadership Team of HOPE08 and commented "HOPE08 prays that the official support of the Government, alongside that already given by the Association of Chief Police Officers, will encourage statutory authorities to work more collaboratively with local churches as they serve communities"

"I consider HOPE08 to be a valued partner of Government and a true example of what can be accomplished when we all work together towards a shared goal. The values and traditions which motivate those of a Christian faith to serve their fellow citizens are clearly evident in the themes of HOPE08"
Minister Parmjit Dhanda MP

'The Lighthouse Group' @ House of Commons

The Lighthouse Group provide alternative education for young people who are excluded from school or who are risk of exclusion to ensure their education continues and they are reintegrated into mainstream education. Today the football legend Cyrille Regis was special guest at an event held in support of the The Lighthouse Group at the House of Commons. Make It* Happen advised The Lighthouse Group on the management of the event.

“I love your style. Thank you for helping us create a vision for what was possible and then delivering so comprehensively. You really bring the best out of us. Great to be working with you.”
Tim Morfin, CEO of The Lighthouse Group

HOPE08 Book Release

The HOPE08 resource book was published today which outlines the years highpoints and offers menus of ideas and resources for churches to choose from in 'raising their game' in community service. Matt is a contributor to the book including a chapter on 'Working with local police, government and media'.

"The HOPE08 resource book is a very exciting project which brought together much of the best practice in mission that has been developed in the last few years. Matt Bird was one of the contributors who wrote a couple of chapters including one about working with local police, government and media. Matt also secured the advertising sponsorship required to make this unique publishing project viable – thank you!
Laurence Singlehurst, Co-Editor

'National Prayer Breakfast' Annual Event

The National Prayer Breakfast took place today in Westminster Great Hall, the event was Chaired by Jim Dobin MP and the keynote speaker was the reknowned Father Timonthy Radcliffe who spoke about the importance of 'family'. The NPB is hosted each year by Christian MPs and Peers with the permission and support of the Speaker of the House of Commons and the Lord Chancellor. Matt Bird is a member of the National Prayer Breakfast steering group

"Just a note to thank you very warmly for making this evening happen. I really wouldn't have known where to start in terms of putting together a guest list, and I thought that your approach to MCing the evening worked perfectly."
Former Chair of NPB

Detling Summer Conference 2007

The Detling Summer Conference is hosted at Kent County Showground under the leadership of Rev. Eric Delve (vicar of St. Luke's Church, Maidstone) and each year draws 5,000 from across Greater London and the Home Counties. This years event takes place 4-9th August. Make It* Happen is an adviser to Detling.

"His company is called ‘Make It Happen’ and that’s exactly what Matt Bird does. In the past the leadership of the Detling Conference had speculated on how good it would be to be able to partner with Premier Radio. It seemed like a natural partnership. As is so often the case, it took a third party to bring us together. Matt Bird did it. He made it happen, and we believe it will be the first step of a significant partnership for both sides. In the same way, Matt drew us together in partnership with Compassion, and we are very excited about the possibilities for the next few years. Matt manages to do these things because he is not just a skilled networker, though he is, but an even better friend. Thank you again, Matt, for your friendship, and your help. We’re looking forward to walking in partnership with you.”
Rev Eric Delve, Chairman of Detling

'HOPE2008' Public Affairs Leadership

HOPE08 is a nationwide initiative to encourage and resource the UK Church to ‘raise its game’ in community service and mission. Matt Bird is part of the leadership team with special responsibility for external communications and has won support of strategic stakeholders such as the Association of Chief Police Officers, Sir Ian Blair Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Lord John Stevens former Police Commissioner and the Department for Communities and Local Government. In addition the endorsement of senior Church leaders including the Archbishop of Canterbury Most Rev Dr Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Westminster Cardinal Cormac Murphy O’Connor and Moderator of the Free Churches Commissioner Elizabeth Matear. Make It* Happen advises HOPE08 on public affairs.

"Thanks for all that you are doing as part of the Leadership Team of HOPE. We are deeply indebted to you for all your hard work in shaping, refining and developing the HOPE vision. Your ability to pull together both the Board of Reference and the Advocacy & Advisory Board has brought a tremendous breadth to what we are about. So an enormous thank you."
Steve Clifford, Chair of HOPE08

'Compassion' in the Media

Compassion is an international development NGO that fights child poverty through sponsorship. Compassion sponsors the education, nutrition, health care and emotional development of over 1 million children in 25 of the worlds poorest countries. The photograph shown here is of Matt on a recent visit to Compassion's work in Haiti the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Make It* Happen advises Compassion on its media relations and partnership development.

"Matt's help in planning and implementing Compassion UK's media strategy has been invaluable. His extensive understanding of media channels and his enthusiasm for the work has enabled us to establish and maintain an effective media plan."
Kate Smith, Communications Manager Compassion UK

'The Lighthouse Group' Growing Future

The Lighthouse Group helps young people who are at crisis in their education. It works with young people who have been excluded, or are at risk of exclusion, from school. As an alternative education provider it aims to tackle the issues that underpin behavioural difficulties and develop learning skills leading to qualifications and a bright future. More than 50 young people are excluded from school everyday, they are often as victims of their circumstances and lack love, care and hope for their future. Make It* Happen is working with The Lighthouse Group to grow awareness and long term sustainable support for this charity

"Matt's input into our Marketing and Donor Relations Strategy has transformed the way we approach fundraising. Matt has a great ability to quickly understand what drives an organisation, and identify marketing opportunities that can take an organisation to the next level. His interaction with our staff was first class"
Mike Royal, National Director of The Lighthouse Group

'Pentecost Festival' Civic Relations

‘Pentecost Festival’ is a multi-cultural event being organised in communities and venues around the ten Northern Line stations between London Waterloo and Camden Town. The festival emphasises celebration, creativity, inclusiveness, spirituality and service in local communities and will take place over the weekend of 9th-11th May 2008 and aims to attract 20,000 participants. It is the initiative of Rev Dr Rob Frost Director of Share Jesus International. Make It* Happen is leading on Pentecost Festival civic relations

"Matt's ability to network people is quite remarkable. In a recent series of meetings for the new London Pentecost Festival he saved us many many hours of work. He put us in touch with people who could move things on rather than putting obstacles in our way! A remarkable gift! We found it a good investment."
Rev Dr Rob Frost, Director of Share Jesus International

More Than Gold Charity Launch

More Than Gold is being established as the UK Churches charity for serving major sporting events in the UK including the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics. Special guests included the Secretary of State Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell, the Archbishop of Canterbury Most Rev Dr Rowan Williams and the Archbishop of Westminster His Eminence Cardinal Cormac Murphey O'Connor. Lord Brian Mawhinney who is chairman of the football league was introduced as the Chairman elect of the 'More Than Gold' board. Matt Bird serves on the interim executive and Make It* Happen co-managed the launch event.

"I honestly can't think of anything else I've been to in recent times which brought together such a range of Christian leaders from right across the denominational rainbow! So - well done you - what a fabulous compliment. Also I thought the event itself was really well organised - which is not always the case with Christian gatherings! So - congratulations all round! And on top of that I got some great audio!"
Cindy Kent, Presenter at Premier Media Group

'DCF' Creative Industries Reception

The Digital Content Forum is a super trade body that represents digital creative industries to government. These members include those from film, music, gaming and publishing industries. Recently the DCF hosted the Creative Industries Minister Shaun Woodward at Westminster's premier restaurant The Cinnamon Club who commented that the UK’s creative industries challenge those of all other countries around the world – but we face tough competition. Make It* Happen provides public affairs consultancy to the DCF.

"As our Public Affairs Director Matt Bird helped re-organise the Digital Content Forum, gather our membership around common interests and connect us at strategic levels of government. We are grateful to him for his thoughtful approach to complex problems and his ability to Make It Happen for us in Government"
Paul Jackson, Chairman of the Digital Content Forum

'Soul in the City' Launch

SOULINTHECITY plans to mobilise over 20,000 young people in community projects through 750 local churches across Greater London in the summer of 2004. This ambitious initiative was recently launched at Downing Street with special guests Sir John Stevens, Metropoitan Police Commissioner and Chief Secretary of the Treasury, Rt Hon Paul Boateng MP. SITC is also supported by the Prime Minister Tony Blair who has said "SOULINTHECITY is an immensely worthwhile venture. I am delighted to give it my support". Matt Bird is Associate Director with special responsibility for strategic public affairs.

"What a phenomenal evening! We could never have dreamed of putting on such an event and are indebted to you for setting it up from venue to guests to content. You pulled together a very interesting collection of individuals! A high percentage of those I wittered with were there 'because we met Matt and he told us...' You were a superb as anchorman/M.C. which in my books is the most difficult role."
Liz Biddulph, Co-Director of Soul Survivor

Man Dancin' Film Premier

Man Dancin' is a gangster film with a difference, it is directed by Norman Stone and stars Alex Ferns, Tom Georgeson, Kenneth Cranham, James Cosmo and Jenny Foulds. Make It* Happen helped to organise the film premier of Man Dancin in London's West End

"Matt Bird catches the vision and delivers. He has a rare and positive combination of genuine friendliness and professional edge. We are very grateful for all he did to make the London launch of Man Dancin' such a success"
Norman Stone, Film Director