I have been thinking about impact a lot recently, as March is when Active Essex releases their annual Impact Report. So, in writing my reflections this month, I decided to look up the dictionary definition. Impact is described as ‘having made marked effect or influence’. This made a lot of sense to me, but it also got me thinking about what the best way is to articulate and demonstrate impact.
Stats are important but can often be dry and not appeal to our human nature. I have an outstanding Marketing and Communications team and have challenged them for this year’s Active Essex Impact Report to really think about the ‘so what’ and bring to life the work of the Essex ecosystem over the past year.
One key area that we have prioritised is the power of storytelling. The Active Essex wider team work with so many amazing partners who have incredible stories to tell about how they are using physical activity and sport to improve lives and strengthen communities. I am really delighted that our Impact Report this year, shines a light on the great work of our system partners and locally trusted organisations who use their own words to tell their story through mixed methods of video, audio, photos and written quotes.
I invite you to take a look at the Active Essex Impact Report site, which I promise you is easy to navigate, and provides the opportunity to read and dive into the areas you are interested in. I know you will be touched by the stories that showcase the hard work of the Active Essex team, along with all of our incredible partners.
