THOUGHTS, ideas, energy and passion are required to support a project aimed at bringing the community together in Wickford.
The Wickford Family Project is an initiative launched by Basildon Borough Council to encourage residents to volunteer in the community to make it a better place.
It aims to utilise people in the town, whatever their talents may be, and wants to get as many residents involved as possible.
Organised by the Basildon Family Steering Group, consultations began in November and the project was launched in March.
Residents have already said that the town would benefit from a café in the Memorial Park, a job club and a youth group run by parents.
Borough councillor Terri Sargent, cabinet member for community services, said: "We need your thoughts, ideas, energy and passion so if you would like to volunteer from just a few hours a month towards making the area a better place to live, this project can even offer training to support you in doing this if required.
"Wickford is one of the areas where we are trying to get things going in the neighbourhood.
"This is an opportunity for families who may not be involved in groups before to be part of something.
"It's a neighbourhood agreement which means that residents can make decisions on how they want things for the area."
Councillor Sargent explained that the project is about partnerships and working with the local community through volunteering.
She continued: "The project will target antisocial behaviour by improving employment prospects and opportunities for young people.
"We already have a number of mums meeting in Highcliffe Children's Centre and that is working well.
"Young mums can go for help and advice in child care."
A family day organised by the council will be held at Wickford Memorial Park in May.
Councillor Sargent said: "It will be a fun day and I hope lots of the public go – it's about improving children's prospects and getting everyone involved."
Grant Taylor is neighbourhood co-ordinator at Basildon Borough Council and is orchestrating the project.
Councillor Sargent said: "When he gets a project he gets really stuck into it and gives it his all – I am sure this will help so many people.
"There are a number of volunteers establishing a job club and a Memorial Park group – it's about taking responsibility for their area.
"We wanted to run the project in Wickford as it is an area that can be overlooked."
Mr Taylor said that community support is lacking in many areas and described the project as a "rallying call" for people to get involved.
He said he believes there is an appetite for this type of project where the community can lead an initiative.
Those wishing to volunteer in a community project in Wickford or who have any ideas for a new group or just want to find out more should attend The Basildon Family Day, which will take place on Friday from noon until 3pm at Wickford Memorial Park in Rettendon View.