When we heard about The Big Community Dig, led by Middlesbrough Environment City (MEC) , we knew it would be the perfect ‘Do Good, Feel Good’ event. The purpose of the Dig was to transform the former Nature’s World site, with volunteers clearing overgrown areas, preparing garden beds, and creating new spaces for community use. Linking perfectly with the University’s Sustainable Futures Strategy and our commitment to transforming lives and economies, we couldn’t wait to roll up our sleeves and get started.
The site, located near Ladgate Lane, is being redeveloped to support community groups, schools, and well-being sessions. Produce grown on-site, starting with winter vegetables, will be used in cooking sessions and distributed through Eco Shops across the Tees Valley, supporting food sustainability and access.
The day began with a short taxi ride to the site. Then, armed with gloves, spades, and a shared vision for sustainability, our volunteers got straight to work. Over the course of the morning, the team cleared dense vegetation, removed debris, and began preparing the ground for what will soon become a vibrant community hub for growing fresh, local produce.
But the Big Community Dig was about more than just clearing land, it’s a powerful step towards environmental awareness, local food security, and long-term community resilience.
We weren’t alone in our efforts. Volunteers from Refugee Futures and BOC also joined the day. Refugee Futures supports refugees and people seeking asylum to flourish in the UK, while BOC, the UK and Ireland’s largest provider of industrial, medical, and specialist gases, encourages its staff to volunteer for meaningful projects throughout the year.
It wasn’t just about connecting with nature; we were also connecting with each other, building networks, sharing stories, and uncovering opportunities for future collaboration.
Our student volunteers were outstanding. With energy, determination, and what felt like endless wheelbarrow runs, we truly made a difference. The day was filled with conversation, laughter, and skill-sharing. Volunteering creates that sense of belonging and brings together people from all backgrounds. It’s a fantastic way to make friends, grow personally, and feel part of something bigger. The taxi ride home was buzzing with energy, chatter, and smiles, that feeling you only get after doing something truly worthwhile. A huge thank you to all our volunteers, you made the day so special.
If you are thinking about volunteering, or just want to know more, we’d love to hear from you. Email us at volunteering@tees.ac.uk and we’ll support you every step of the way. Our next Do Good, Feel Good event is on 23rd October, where we’re teaming up with Middlesbrough Council for a Keep Boro Tidy litter pick. There’s still time to sign up here.
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