Thirteen Group Launch: Our first initiative in the North East

Thirteen Group is a housing association that provides around 100,000 people in the North East, Yorkshire and Humber region with homes, support and opportunities to grow. In mid-October, we attended the Thirteen Group launch event in Middlesbrough, alongside Julie Hollins and Cheryl Hodds from Thirteen, as well as community leaders, local authorities, and businesses.

It was an inspiring launch that showcased Thirteen’s commitment to social value and local collaboration. We’d like to thank Julie and Cheryl for their hard work. Their dedication to their local residents and community organisations was evident throughout the event.

Our co-founder, Dan, introduced Match My Project and gave a live demo, showing how the platform can directly support social impact.

Local Voices: Linx Youth Project

The event also featured presentations from local partners, including a thought-provoking talk by Wayne Mason, Chief Executive at the Linx Youth Project. Representing one half of Thirteen’s very first match during the pilot phase, Wayne highlighted the importance of creating a space where community organisations can share what they need and businesses can easily step in to support those requirements.

Wayne humbly described his organisation’s work as providing three fundamental provisions for local children: a safe space, engaging activities, and an environment where they feel acknowledged and valued.

It was a sobering realisation for many of us present that while our own children may be fortunate enough to experience these things, many children in the North East – and throughout the country – do not.

Wayne emphasised how investing in young people supports long-term economic growth. By fostering a sense of belonging, the Linx Youth Project helps young people stay, work, and build futures in their local area.

“Every young person we meet is a story still being written. Sometimes, they just need someone to hand them a pen. At Linx, that’s what we do. We help them write better chapters; for themselves, their families, and their communities.”

Why Our Work Matters

For us at Match My Project, it was a reminder of why our work matters. Beyond the technology and processes behind the platform, our mission is to help individuals and organisations create lasting, positive change in their own communities. While we focus on developing features that make collaboration easier, our purpose begins and ends with the community.

This marks Match My Project’s first initiative in the North East, and we’re optimistic about its progress. With Julie and Cheryl guiding its launch, we are confident about its potential to drive a more connected, measurable and impactful approach to Social Value delivery.

Are you a supplier or community organisation based in the North East?

Sign up to Thirteen’s site here. It’s free, quick and connects community projects with local suppliers ready to give back.

Have questions? Drop us a line at hello@matchmyproject.org 💌