Charities

Community Action Network (CAN) was formed in 2019 from the merger of Poole Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) and Bournemouth CVS, these charities had a rich history going back over 50 years, and form the foundations of our work today. We want to see communities that are strong, healthy, diverse, vibrant and flourishing. We work in partnership to make that happen through: EMPOWERING the voluntary sector to survive and thrive, by providing expertise, support, development opportunities and training ENABLING volunteering through our Volunteering Hub, helping everyone to play an active role in their community CONNECTING communities by helping to create conditions where everyone’s voice is valued and heard by facilitating great local networking and communication We are proud members of NAVCA, our national membership body, and hold their quality mark (seen as an exemplar holder), and NCVO who unite to champion the remarkable role of charities and volunteers. Any charity, voluntary group, community organisation or public sector service working for the good of the local community can join us for free – and our members are the heart of everything we do. We also offer a Business Supporter membership, enabling local businesses with a ‘social conscience’ to connect and collaborate with like-minded people.

About Community First is a registered Charity which enables individuals and local groups to be the difference they want to see in their local communities. We achieve this through connecting and engaging with the community, identifying where essential services could make a difference to peoples’ lives and facilitating this change through the actions of dedicated individuals and organisations. Our Vision We’re committed to championing the voluntary and community sector through empowering individuals and creating enduring connections that make life better for everyone. Our Members We are an independent membership organisation representing a diverse group of people of over 600 member organisations. We believe that we are all stronger by working together and so we welcome new members and their involvement in our essential and life-changing work. Membership is free to voluntary and community organisations who operate in the areas that we serve. Our Values Creative – We will take measured risks to explore and test new ideas and approaches to delivering services and support. We will strive to achieve the best possible outcomes. Inclusive – We value diversity and we will strive to ensure that opportunities are open to everyone. We will actively seek to include those less likely or able to participate themselves and treat all our customers, partners and members with respect and courtesy. Collaborative – We will work with our partners, our member organisations and wider stakeholders to achieve the best possible results we can. Integrity – We are open and honest and do all we can to put the interests of our members, volunteers and the wider voluntary sector first. Evidence based – We will make reasoned and informed decisions through research and tested evidence.