Groundswell stands out because we take a unique, holistic approach to community building. Rather than focusing solely on quick fixes, we aim to understand and address the deeper systemic issues that damage community fabric, such as inequality, lack of access, and social isolation. Our approach is rooted in collaboration, listening to community voices, and prioritising long-term, sustainable change. We don't just want to create temporary programs; we aim to spark a lasting, grassroots movement that empowers individuals to lead change within their own communities.

We are funded through a combination of individual donations, grants, and partnerships with like-minded organisations. We actively seek funding from foundations, government programs, and corporate partners that align with our values. However, we are also committed to staying independent and mission-driven, ensuring that our work remains focused on the needs of the communities we serve.

While the Groundswell Project is not a political organisation, we are deeply engaged in the issues that affect communities and the broader social landscape. We believe in supporting policies that promote justice, equity, and community empowerment, but we don’t advocate for any specific political party or ideology. Our goal is to create a non-partisan platform where individuals from all political backgrounds can come together to work on shared challenges and solutions.

We measure success by both qualitative and quantitative outcomes. For us, success isn’t just about the number of people reached but the depth of impact we have. We look at how communities are transforming, whether individuals are gaining a stronger sense of agency, and how long-lasting the changes are. Success is also reflected in the relationships built and the capacity for communities to work together and self-sustain long after our involvement. We track progress through surveys, community feedback, and long-term evaluations that allow us to refine our work and adapt to new needs.

Communities are fractured due to a combination of historical, economic, and social factors. Inequities in access to resources, education, and healthcare create divisions that disproportionately impact marginalised groups. Additionally, the breakdown of social infrastructure—such as public spaces, local businesses, and community centres—has left many individuals feeling isolated. We also see a rise in divisive narratives, often driven by media and extreme political rhetoric, that pit communities against each other. The Groundswell Project believes that healing and rebuilding communities requires addressing these systemic issues while fostering understanding and unity through dialogue and collective action.

Our initiatives focus on building community cohesion and addressing the root causes of social fracture. Some of our key projects include:
- Community Listening Circles: A space for open dialogue where community members can share their experiences and identify common challenges.
- Youth Empowerment Programs: Offering mentorship, skill-building workshops, and leadership development for young people to become active changemakers through sports, arts and other activities.
- Training: We offer world-class training in schools, colleges and youth centres across the country to raise awareness of safeguarding risks. 
- Community Building Events: We host events across the country that bring diverse community members together with statutory partners to tackle specific issues like affordable housing, food security, or mental health access. Each event is driven by the community’s needs and is designed to encourage collaboration and self-sustainability.

We welcome people from all backgrounds to get involved! Whether you want to volunteer your time, share your expertise, or make a donation, there are many ways to contribute to our mission. We also host regular community workshops, events, and discussions, which are great opportunities for you to meet others who are passionate about community change. Get in touch with us to learn more.