The Commissioner’s Community Grant Scheme funds a youth empowerment initiative helping fight anti-social behaviour

Asgard Cornwall received a grant of £4,934 to facilitate their Fight for Change; Youth Empowerment Initiative thanks to The Commissioner’s Community Grant Scheme.

Asgard Cornwall have a mission to provide essential knowledge about responsible citizenship, working toward preventing criminal activity in our young community. They have a particular focus on eradicating youths carrying weapons.

Asgard Cornwall, based in Bodmin, provide gym memberships and sports classes such as MMA, wrestling, boxing and Muay Thai. Their projectA piece of work that delivers an output. “Fight for Change; Youth Empowerment Initiative”, is founded on the principles of education, empowerment, and the pursuit of social justice. Their four core objectives are: Empowering Youth; Preventing Criminal Activity; Promoting Non-Violence and Community Engagement.

17 young persons reported a noticeable increase in confidence, which has
contributed to a reduction in anti-social behaviour.

In a community grappling with the harsh realities of low economic status, the potential impact of the “Fight for Change” initiative is profound. In an area where knife crime and men’s mental health issues persist, this project brings hope. It offers a lifeline, reducing the statistics by diverting at-risk youth towards meaningful engagement and non-violent conflict resolution.

By nurturing resilience and offering opportunities for mentorship, this initiative equips its participants with the tools to build better lives. The positive change is evident in empowered individuals who become active, responsible citizens, creating a safer and more harmonious community for all.

Feedback from Asgard Cornwall:

As coaches, we are pleased to reflect on the impact of the funding and the role it played in shaping the lives of the participants. The financial support allowed us to create a structured, safe, and supportive environment that enabled participants to grow. Many of them came with significant challenges, including substance abuse, anti-social behaviour, and difficult home lives. Building trust with each individual was a key challenge, but it was essential to our success.

The funding provided the opportunity to create lasting change in the lives of the participants, and it has had a ripple effect on their families and communities. The lessons learned and the relationships built will continue to have a positive impact long after the course ends. We are grateful for the opportunity to be part of this process and are excited to continue supporting individuals as they create better futures for themselves.

RT’s Story:

When RT first joined the course, he was struggling with substance abuse, alcohol dependence, and a history of anti-social behaviour. Having been incarcerated multiple times, RT was known for causing trouble and fighting. His tough, cocky attitude masked deep inner struggles.

Over time, with the support of the owners and coaches, RT began to change. They believed in his potential. Even when he made mistakes, they offered him another chance, providing a free year of training if he remained sober and continued making positive choices.

RT embraced this opportunity. He stayed sober, worked hard in training, and eventually earned the chance to fight on a show. Beyond his athletic achievements, RT turned his life around, securing a steady job and moving in with his girlfriend.

His journey is proof that with the right guidance and opportunities, anyone can overcome their past. What’s even more remarkable is the shift in how he’s perceived. Previously, we received calls warning us about him, but now members of the public speak positively about his transformation and how he’s become an inspiration to his community.

To find out more about Asgard Cornwall, visit their Facebook page.

About the Funder

The Commissioner’s Community Grant Scheme is funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner of Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. This funding supports communities to provide diversionary activities from drugs related anti-social behaviour.

If you are a community group looking for funding, please view our available grants.

If you are looking to support the Cornwall Community Foundation with a donation, go to our online donation page.