Who are we?
Fen Zen CIC is a Community Interest Company and registered Social Enterprise based in Denver, near Downham Market, in Norfolk, UK, our mission, since 2019 has been to provide a range of nature-based and educational events for our local community, as well as to promote sustainable living and environmental stewardship. Our passion is to create a space where people can connect with nature, each other, and their creative selves, to learn new skills, while also promoting sustainability and respect for the environ
ment.
Impact
The wider impact of Fen Zen CIC's 'Oak and Field Learning Lodge' project is significant and far-reaching. Here are some of the potential positive outcomes:
Environmental stewardship: The lodge's use of local, natural materials and eco-friendly features like composting toilets and solar energy will promote sustainability and environmental awareness.
Community engagement: The lodge will provide a space for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, learn from each other, and build connections.
Skills development: The classes and workshops offered at the lodge will provide opportunities for people to learn new skills and explore their creativity.
Economic benefits: The project will create jobs and support local businesses, as well as attract visitors to the area, boosting the local economy.
Health and well-being: Spending time in nature and engaging in creative activities has been shown to have positive effects on mental and physical health.
Overall, the Oak and Field Learning Lodge project has the potential to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the community and the environment.
Why are we crowdfunding?
As a Community Interest Company, our business is designed to be 'For Purpose not Profit', so we do not have the funds to build this beautiful project. We are looking in to many funding opportunities to hopefully get the funds we need to see this project realised, and crowdfunding is just one of those strands of funding. We appreciate every penny that people donate!
We're building a green, community-focused learning space in the heart of nature. The Oak and Field Learning Lodge will be a hub for education, creativity and connection, where people of all ages can come together to learn traditional crafts, explore fascinating topics and engage with high-quality curriculum. With your support, we can create a sustainable, off-grid classroom that promotes environmental stewardship and fosters a love of learning. Join us in creating a space where people can connect with nature and each other, and discover the joy of hands-on education.
How we’ll spend the money raised
The money raised from a crowdfunding campaign for the 'Oak and Field Learning Lodge' project will be used for a variety of expenses related to the construction and operation of the lodge. Here are some of the ways the funds may be allocated:
- Planning permission: Architectural drawings and planning applications in order for the project to be legal and safe.
Building materials: The lodge will be constructed using local, natural materials such as wood, stone, and clay, which can be costly.
Labor: Skilled workers will be hired to construct the lodge and install eco-friendly features like the composting toilets and solar panels.
Furnishings and equipment: The lodge will need to be outfitted with tables, chairs, and equipment and resources for classes and workshops.
Operating expenses: Money will be needed to cover ongoing expenses like utilities, maintenance, and insurance.
Program development: Funds may be used to develop new classes and workshops, or to bring in guest instructors.
Overall, the funds raised from the crowdfunding campaign will help to make the Oak and Field Learning Lodge a reality and ensure that it can provide high-quality educational and creative experiences for years to come.