The Paradise Project was set up in 1991 to encourage members of the local community to engage in voluntary service for their neighbours and community. Self-help activities, organised and led by local people are at the core of what the Project encourages and does. Through these activities the Paradise Project seeks to address local people's needs for appropriate, affordable, and safe social and community events, clubs and meetings, and to draw more people into serving their neighbour. Although it is run by local Anglican churches, there is no requirement of church membership to be a user, volunteer or leader, and regular evaluations of the work confirm that the Project genuinely reaches all sections of the local community.
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As the only activities run by the Paradise Project are those that local people have identified as needed in our community, and which they are prepared to run themselves, local people have a great say in the services that are provided and the way that they are delivered. One current focus of the work are the needs of families, children and young people, which are being met through a range of groups and one-off events run by local volunteers. There are also activities for women, and for the older members of our community.
The work of the Paradise Project is recognised by the Local Authority. Cllr. Margo Dunn is a keen supporter, and in 1999, on making a special award, Neighbourhood Development Officer, John Paine identified the Paradise Project as, 'the most outstanding community development initiative work in Islington in the last ten years.' The faith community from which it has begun also recognises its worth and refers to the Paradise Project as a 'flagship example of community action, and a model for this type of work for the whole of London'.
The Paradise Project welcomes all, to come along to either join in the activities provided or explore with our workers new ventures.