fbe East Midlands Announces Four Community-Focused Charity Donations Following Successful Events Programme
The Forum for the Built Environment (fbe) East Midlands has announced a unique programme of charitable giving, directing profits generated through its recent events into four organisations that are making a lasting difference across the East Midlands.
Rather than following the traditional route of supporting larger national charities, fbe East Midlands has chosen to back four inspiring local organisations whose work closely aligns with the values of placemaking, sustainability, community wellbeing and heritage preservation.
The four donations will support:
RadFest
What began as a simple idea from a group of local parents has grown into one of Nottinghamshire's most successful community events. Created to provide opportunities for young people in Radcliffe-on-Trent, RadFest has evolved from a youth-focused initiative into a much-loved annual festival that brings together thousands of residents for a celebration of music, creativity and community spirit.
Run entirely by volunteers, the not-for-profit festival attracts around 3,000 visitors and provides a valuable platform for local performers, emerging talent and young people looking to get involved both on and off the stage. Through ticket sales, sponsorship and community support, every pound generated is reinvested into creating memorable experiences and strengthening local connections.
For fbe East Midlands, RadFest represents the power of community-led initiatives to create vibrant, inclusive places where people want to live, work and spend time—values that sit at the heart of great placemaking.
Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust
As the county's leading conservation charity, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust works to protect and restore vital habitats while helping wildlife recover across the region.
From managing nature reserves and safeguarding biodiversity to promoting greener landscapes and environmental education, the Trust plays a critical role in protecting the natural assets that underpin healthy, resilient communities.
With biodiversity net gain, climate resilience and nature-positive development now central to many construction and property projects, fbe East Midlands recognises the importance of supporting organisations that are actively improving the region's ecological future.
Naomi's Garden
Naomi's Garden is a remarkable therapeutic gardening project that uses nature as a tool for healing, wellbeing and personal development.
The charity provides opportunities for individuals facing mental health challenges, social isolation and other life difficulties to connect with nature, learn new skills and build confidence within a supportive environment.
At a time when wellbeing has become an increasingly important conversation within the construction and property industries, Naomi's Garden offers a powerful example of how green spaces can positively transform lives and strengthen communities.
Nottingham Mill Co-op
Nottingham Mill Co-op is a community flour mill and bakery kitchen space based in Nottingham city centre. Operating as a not-for-profit co-operative, the organisation is owned and governed by its members, who actively help shape its future through a collaborative and community-led approach.
The co-op supports small-scale food producers involved in the production of grain, flour, bread and other cereal-based foods by providing affordable access to specialist facilities, equipment, skills training, business advice and a network of mentors and peers.
For fbe East Midlands, the co-op represents the power of community ownership, enterprise and collaboration in creating vibrant local economies and sustainable places. Its commitment to supporting grassroots businesses and nurturing skills aligns closely with the values of long-term social value and community development that underpin the built environment sector.
Creating Impact Beyond the Built Environment
The four donations represent fbe East Midlands' commitment to supporting organisations that are tackling challenges and creating opportunities in innovative ways.
"As built environment professionals, we spend our careers shaping places, communities and environments. We wanted our charitable giving to reflect that wider responsibility."
"Each of these organisations is making a tangible impact in its own way - whether that's protecting wildlife, improving wellbeing, promoting sustainable living or preserving heritage. They may not be the obvious choices, but they are exactly the kinds of initiatives that help create thriving places."
The donations have been made possible through the continued support of fbe East Midlands members, sponsors and event attendees, whose participation throughout the year has generated the surplus funds now being reinvested back into the region.
Importantly, this is not a one-off contribution. Over the coming months, fbe East Midlands will be hosting events linked to each of the chosen organisations, giving members the opportunity to learn more about their work, engage directly with the causes and explore the wider role the built environment sector can play in supporting communities.
"These donations reflect the things that make great places successful: thriving communities, healthy ecosystems, active lifestyles and a strong connection to heritage."