Everyone Active, which runs Abbey Leisure Centre, Becontree Heath Leisure Centre and Jim Peters Athletics Stadium in partnership with London Borough of Barking and Dagenham; wants to support projects which are tackling local issues and changing lives.
The award-winning operator launched its Community Champions scheme on Thursday, May 1, 2025, with the aim of building stronger communities and recognising the dedication of those who go above and beyond.
People involved in mentoring, promoting health and wellbeing, supporting inclusivity or leading environmental or cultural projects are being encouraged to apply. It can be a charitable initiative or a project that is small or targeted.
Successful applicants will secure valuable use of facilities within their local leisure centres, to help them carry out these projects. Everyone Active will raise awareness of this work to strengthen connections, encourage civic engagement and foster a culture of giving back.
Those selected for the Community Champions scheme are also in with a chance of being shortlisted for the Champions Awards in autumn of this year.
Meanwhile, Everyone Active also launched its all-new Colleague Champions scheme, which will recognise and reward Everyone Active employees who consistently go above and beyond in their roles.
It will celebrate the provision of exceptional customer service, innovative ideas, teamwork, leadership and dedication to Everyone Active’s values.
Applications for both Community Champions and Colleague Champions opened on Thursday, May 1, 2025 and close on Thursday, June 12, 2025. Applications will be submitted via the Champions website at www.ea-champions.com
Hasan Romel, Everyone Active’s area contract manager, said: “We are hugely excited to launch the Community Champions scheme, which we hope will make a real difference in Barking and Dagenham.
“We want to highlight the work of everyday heroes who are changing people’s lives and inspiring others to make a positive impact in their communities.
“We encourage local people, community projects and charitable initiatives to get their applications in so we can support the fantastic work that you do.”
Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, said:
"Our borough is full of incredible individuals who work tirelessly to improve the lives of others, often without recognition. Everyone Active’s Community Champions scheme is a fantastic way to celebrate and support these unsung heroes, while strengthening the spirit of togetherness that makes Barking and Dagenham so special."
Everyone Active also runs the Sporting Champions scheme, which empowers aspiring athletes to achieve their full potential through access to state-of-the-art training facilities and invaluable mentoring support from Olympians and Paralympians.
Since its inception in 2016, the scheme has elevated the sporting careers of more than 6,000 athletes by providing them with free access to Everyone Active's 240-plus leisure centres nationwide.