A couple of weeks ago I reported some advice I received regarding the social politics of Hackney - that perhaps we'd be better off steering clear, as a new Jewish player on the scene might be badly received.
I just spoke to a Hackney councillor - an old youth movement contact from RSY - who was far more positive about the possibilities.
First of all, he said the idea is very 'Big Society' (see yesterday's blog entry) and will be very popular with Cameron and co. This might bode well for possible funding from central government (endowments for community organising).
There are lots of cuts to local authority funding so we may face a real challenge getting local organisations to pay for their corps members or receiving funding direct from the council. But there are lots of potential placement organisations who would jump at the chance to receive free or low cost help. (Which still leaves the question, how do we pay for our costs? How do we raise the money needed by the participants to enable them to take part? More from private donors and foundations?)
Hackney itself, he said, is a vibrant place, attractive to potential participants.
He doubted the council could help with housing, as there's a strict points system in place and they couldn't be seen to privilege anyone.
All in all though, he said it was a great idea and - if and when it's running - he'd be keen to get involved.
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