The article was written by Shakeerah Ajede, a Friend of One Community.

Yes, it is still October, and yes, it is still Black History Month. This year’s theme is “Honouring Our Communities”, so I wanted to shine a light on organisations in my community that are doing wonderful work. One of those organisations is One Community Development Trust.

When AFCAB Chair Nozi sent out a call for entries to celebrate Black History Month, my first thought went to One Community. I had heard of them and come across them at local events, and the more I learnt, the more I understood why their work speaks so strongly to the theme.

The purpose of this blog is to showcase the work of One Community and to encourage us all to give back to the communities we live in, in whatever way we can.

Why One Community matters

One Community was created by community groups, voluntary organisations and residents of Tilbury and Chadwell St Mary — local people with a shared commitment to their area. Their aim was simple but powerful: to ensure that local voices and skills remained central to the future of the area as it underwent significant change and regeneration.

And yes, this is the same Tilbury where over a thousand Caribbean passengers arrived on HMT Empire Windrush on 22 June 1948. That history adds even more resonance to a Black History Month reflection rooted in community, belonging and contribution.

Purpose and objectives

One Community’s objectives are to empower local people, improve community wellbeing through partnership, provide affordable and accessible community facilities, and build a sustainable community organisation. They have been doing this for more than 15 years, enhancing lives across the borough by providing the support and opportunities people need to make a difference.

How it began

Listening to the CEO explain how One Community came about made me emotional. The organisation was born in response to the challenges Tilbury was facing: the leisure centre had closed, the Job Centre was closing, and the local pub had shut its doors. It felt as though there was no clear way forward for the community.

During a “taking charge of your community” meeting, people said they wanted something that would still exist regardless of politics, policy changes or budget cuts. In the same video, the CEO also reflected on people questioning her suitability to lead the organisation because of her ethnicity as an African woman. I particularly loved how she responded by pointing to the organisation’s name — One Community — a name chosen by the people of the town. Even the logo was chosen by the people!

Programmes that support the community

• Little things that mean a lot – Many people face everyday challenges such as communicating with essential services, accessing the internet, completing forms or printing documents. This service provides practical support and helps build meaningful connections, giving individuals and families the confidence, stability and resources they need to improve their wellbeing and navigate daily life more easily.
• Headstart to Employment – This programme helps people who are struggling to get back into work by providing practical support such as CV writing, interview preparation, and skills training. The core aim is to improve people’s employability, confidence, and readiness for long-term employment.
• Steps to Success – This career support programme provides skills training, mentoring, and job-search assistance. Through personalised one-to-one support, it helps people overcome barriers to employment, build confidence, and develop the practical skills needed to secure and sustain longterm work.
• Coffee & Chat – This is more than just a drop-in session. It is a welcoming place where people can find friendship, understanding, and a sense of belonging. For those who may feel isolated, vulnerable, or unsure of where to turn, it offers a safe space to connect with others, share experiences, and rebuild confidence. Alongside emotional support and community connection, practical advice on employment and work-related challenges is also available, helping people feel hopeful about the future.
• Volunteer Investment Programme (VIP) – This gives volunteers the opportunity to grow, learn, and realise their potential. Through dedicated support and guidance, participants build valuable skills, confidence, and real-world experience that can open doors to future employment. At the same time, they make a positive difference in their community, creating a rewarding journey of both personal and professional development.
• Monday Work Club – A weekly drop-in service for people seeking employment. It provides practical support including CV writing, interview preparation, and career advice. Running every Monday from 10 am to 3 pm, it offers a structured environment where jobseekers can improve their employability skills and access guidance to help them move closer to work.

One Community’s latest report highlights that 58.8% of visitors supported were of African heritage (1,930 people), making this the largest demographic group served. Alongside strong engagement from people of different ethnic backgrounds, the organisation recognises diversity as a strength that enables a deeper understanding of modern Thurrock and its evolving community needs.

Over the year, the organisation supported 3,284 visitors, helping 196 local residents secure employment and contributing to economic growth and social mobility. These outcomes demonstrate the power of community organisations in creating pathways to opportunity, particularly for communities that may face barriers to employment and progression.

Volunteers contributed 1,862 hours of service, representing 68% of service delivery. This reflects the spirit of collective action and mutual support that sits at the heart of thriving communities. The report also showcases individual success stories, including volunteers who have developed new skills, confidence, and opportunities through their service to others.

Beyond employment support, the organisation provided assistance with housing advocacy, immigration matters, hate crime reporting, domestic abuse support, disability inclusion, and LGBTQ+ inclusion. This holistic approach demonstrates how strong communities are built by ensuring everyone feels valued, supported, and able to participate fully in society.

The report recognises the importance of creating opportunities for young people through work placements, skills development, and employment pathways. By nurturing local talent and providing meaningful experiences, the organisation is helping to shape the next generation of community leaders and changemakers.

I remember my own years of volunteering and how they opened doors to paid employment. Reading about One Community’s work has reignited a passion in me to do more for my community, and I hope reading this will do the same for you. There are likely organisations like One Community where we live, and there may be small but meaningful ways we can give our time, skills or support.

Remember, the Civil Service encourages volunteering, and we can take up to six days’ paid leave to volunteer in any 12-month period. Black History Month is a reminder not only to honour those who came before us, but also to recognise and support the people and organisations shaping our communities today.

As Black History Month draws to a close, I hope this reflection reminds us that honouring our communities is not only about remembering history, but also about recognising the people and organisations creating change today. One Community shows what is possible when local people come together with purpose, compassion and determination. Whether through volunteering, sharing skills, offering support or simply learning more about the needs around us, we all have a part to play in strengthening the communities we call home.