A Local Group is a team of people who share our passion for livelihood creating tools and get together to collect tools from their area. Many also arrange tool collections at local supermarkets, DIY stores and garden centres.

Many also offer talks to local community groups and even speak on local radio.

Some groups sort the tools before arranging collection and some even do some refurbishment, such as grinding off rust and fixing loose handles.

To start, you need somewhere to store tools, such as a vacant garage or big shed and the enthusiasm to gather together like-minded friends. Our local groups have a great community spirit and are a huge support for TWAM.

There are so many possibilities as to what the group might do, but the main tasks usually undertaken are:

1. You will collect tools from requests made by the general public through the TWAM website.
2. You will promote TWAM locally to generate your own tool donation requests.
3. You will store the tools and arrange collection by a TWAM van.
4. You will sort the tools so all broken and unsuitable tools are removed before the van collects.
5. You will do basic tool refurbishment as facilities and skills allow.
6. You will visit shows, farmers markets, local events, etc. to promote TWAM and tool donation
7. You will offer talks and demonstrations to churches and other local groups to encourage their support.
8. You will work with your local Tool Collectors, Volunteer Speakers and Community Fundraisers to have a real impact on your community, which may include fundraising to support the work of TWAM.
9. You will offer support to other potential groups who need advice on how to set up and run a group.

You may not do all of these things, but they are examples of what Local Groups do for TWAM.

This is an incredibly rewarding role as you are directly helping people living in ultra-poverty gain the tools that will change their lives. There are not too many volunteer opportunities where the role you do will make a direct difference to people thousands of miles away. However, the tools the local group collects will be in the hands of a trained tailor or craftsmen in Africa, potentially within months. It is quite normal for people to recognise tools they have collected (usually large and unusual ones) being used in Africa in photos in our magazine. That’s the genuine difference you will make.

TWAM will provide training and advice. We will also put you in touch with another local group who will offer advice and support.

We will invite you to visit your nearest Refurbishment Centre and invite you to Volunteer Days and Open Days.

We will include you in the Local Group Network, which will offer support and resources to all groups and help them stay in touch with each other.

We will provide you with leaflets, pull-up banners, and promotional materials. We will also provide a leaflet just about your local group for you to distribute.

We will provide materials for talks and, if needed, a projector and screen. You will have the support of the Volunteering Coordinator and Fundraising and Communications Officer.

You will be offered your own promotional page on the main TWAM website.

TWAM will help with expenses, such as when needing to purchase grinding wheels for refurbishment, basic tools for refurbishment, and expenses if attending exhibitions. However, we permit local groups to sell unwanted tools to help cover their own costs and most try to be self financing.

We will provide you with TWAM branded polo shirts and fleeces. Finally, it is an amazing opportunity to build friendships, impact your community, and transform lives.