Uniting the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise sector (VCFSE) across North Hertfordshire and Stevenage is just one of the many ways we support, champion and build capacity, as the areas Centre for Voluntary Services.

As well as providing support through one-to-one advocacy, training and services such as DBS checks and funding advice, we facilitate and support community relationships.

We believe that the strength of community lies in the strength of the connections we have with each other.

Our annual Community Conference is one way we do that, in partnership with Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation and North Herts Council.

Held this year at the iconic Broadway Hotel in Letchworth, over 50 community-based organisations are coming together on Tuesday, May 21.

Representatives from all over the district from all types of organisations, like Open Art Box, Livingroom Herts, The Willow Foundation and Stand By Me.

Throughout the day delegates will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded colleagues, whilst also hear from inspiring guest speakers too – delivering the message of this year’s theme: the power of telling your story.

Stories have forever been told to connect and teach. And in today’s digital world, stories have never been more important when reaching and engaging a specific target audience.

Whether it’s to aid in the recruitment of volunteers, gain support or acquire funding; great storytelling has the power to make a significant difference to an organisation and their beneficiaries.

To illustrate just how inspiring storytelling can be, we’re looking forward to hosting this year’s keynote speaker; Michael McGrath, MBE.

The first disabled person to have led expeditions to both poles, Michael has been named one of Britain's most influential disabled people by Power 100 four times.

Furthermore, attendees at this year’s Community Conference have the opportunity to take part in storytelling sessions by expert writer and storytelling facilitator, Neil Baker.

A writer and communications consultant, Neil helps creators deepen their relationship with their audience.

As well as creating new connections in the community and strengthening existing bonds, our hope is for this year’s attendees to come away inspired and equipped with the tools needed to better tell their story, engage their audience and deliver their organisation’s unique mission.

Whilst this year’s Community Conference is now fully subscribed, we are operating a waiting list for those who wish to attend but have missed out on a place.

Open to Chief Executives, organisers, and leadership representatives of VCFSE groups based or working in North Hertfordshire, the event is free to attend.

Find out more at nhcvs.org.uk/training-events/events.