Putting compassion into action
Inspired by Buddhist values, we aim to strengthen local connection and celebrate diversity to build a community where everyone belongs
About Globe Community Project
GCP was founded in 2003 by practicing Buddhists who decided to put their values of compassion and generosity into action. We offer programmes to local residents of Tower Hamlets and surrounding areas that help isolated people find social connection and live a more fulfilled life.
The way that we work is as important to us as the outcomes of what we do. We commit to accessibility, inclusiveness, clear and kind communication in service delivery. We work to create positive, ethical and caring working and learning environments while uniting people across different faiths, beliefs and cultures.
Our values
Respect for diversity of individuals, cultural background and personal circumstances.
Encouragement of cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
Compassionate and positive regard for the unique experience and creative potential of each and every individual.
Promotion of awareness of self, others and the wider environment;
Encouragement of community cohesion by addressing the needs of marginalized groups and individuals.
Positive commitment to provide accessibility in the design and delivery of our services and the use of clear communication and accessible language.
Promotion of inclusiveness to overcome barriers in delivering our services.
Provision of a positive, ethical and caring environment for those working as well as those learning with GCP.
Our Aims
To provide access to a wide range of wellbeing, educational, social and creative activities for local people, especially for residents who are considered disadvantaged or marginalised.
To develop and offer innovative community projects which meet the needs of local residents.
To provide courses and activities that will support participants to discover tools and skills to improve their health, wellbeing and social connectedness in the long term (i.e. after participation in projects).
To promote cross-cultural collaboration and community cohesion in all our projects, encouraging the interaction of people from the various strands within the community.
To encourage the growth of imagination, self-expression and clear communication, and health and well-being of local disadvantaged residents.
To provide help to individuals and families to enable them to overcome difficulties that may hinder their participation in what we offer.
Our People
Our focus on cohesion was established by co-founder and former chair Susy Powlesland, or Shraddhapuspa (Flower of Faith). As a Jewish child in Nazi-occupied Austria, Susy developed a keen understanding of how racial and religious intolerance can wreak havoc on society and an unshakeable faith in the power of community. In 2007, Susy was awarded an MBE for her services to BAME groups in East London, and she remained active in GCP until her death in 2020, aged 90.
Today, every member of our team carries on Susy’s legacy of cohesion and connection. We’re local people who care about our community here in Tower Hamlets. Click the button below to get to know us better.
Our Supporters
Our work is generously supported by individual donors, and a wonderful network of local volunteers. We gratefully acknowledge and thank the wide range of trusts and foundations who currently support our work.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Our charity was founded by people involved with the London Buddhist Arts Centre in Bethnal Green, many of whom were practicing at the nearby London Buddhist Centre, part of the worldwide Triratna Buddhist Community. Globe Community Project was established to benefit the local community through compassionate action. We want our work to benefit as many of the groups who make up our local community as possible.
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Our mission is to support residents in Tower Hamlets and surrounding areas. So far, our work has mostly been in Tower Hamlets, however we hope to be able to serve surrounding boroughs over the coming years.
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GCP's work is funded by a combination of grants from trusts and foundations, grants from the London Borough of Tower Hamlets (at times), regular donations from supporters, and funds raised through events and collections. We are regulated by the Fundraising Regulator, and are committed to the Fundraising Promise. If you have any concerns about our fundraising, you can get in touch and ask for a copy of our complaints procedure.
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We are not a grant-giving charity. Try the Tower Hamlets Council for Voluntary Service for free advice and support to help develop your organisation.
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Some of our people are ordained members of the Triratna Buddhist Order and have been given Buddhist names on their ordination. These names have meanings which describe the qualities of that person. For example, our former Chair Susanne Powlesland also used her Buddhist name ‘Sraddhapuspa,’ which means ‘blossoming faith.’
Stay connected
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