Welcoming Carolyn to the CAG team
We’re thrilled to share some news from the CAG Devon Network. We’re excited to say that the wonderful Carolyn is stepping into the role of East Devon Project Coordinator, replacing Sarah who has been busy providing great support to groups in East Devon since last September.
Carolyn and Project Lead Helen at the Blackdown Hills Eco Hub – part of the CAG East Devon SkillShare Event
“I’m delighted to be joining the CAG Devon team for two days a week as Project Coordinator for East Devon, a natural next step in what has been a lifelong journey centred around systems, transformational change, sustainability, resilience and the power of community. For me, this role is a natural progression where I can build on and share my experience rooted in grassroots innovation, social learning, soil and ecological regeneration.
Much of my recent work over the past 5 years has focused on the Blackdown Hills, where I’ve lead initiatives through the Blackdown Hills Transition Group, the BH Eco Hub, and more recently coordinating the BH Repair Café. From launching a community food-growing initiative and leading growing trials, to partnering with Plymouth University on biochar research—exploring thermal green walls, microbial networks, soil health, and small-space growing—I’ve always believed that meaningful change begins at the local level.
This work is grounded in collaboration—whether with farmers, horse owners, and landowners, or through the many workshops and events we run. When communities come together to try new things, build trust, share knowledge, and especially grow, prepare, and share food, those experiences forge deeper social bonds and lasting resilience.
We also launched Churchinford 2030, supporting working groups focused on rewilding, local food, and community energy, each one a living expression of how we build hope through practical action. I’m also a member of the Blackdown Hills Nature Connection Network and the Blackdown Hills Partnership Management Group.
The thread that runs through it all—across community projects, digital innovation, and leadership training, is my lifelong belief in the power of communities to be empowered, learn, evolve and lead systems change.
What excites me most about joining the CAG Devon team is the opportunity to connect even more deeply with a network of communities doing bold, creative, and meaningful work, whether that’s tackling repair and reuse, local food resilience, monitoring our precious rivers/streams, litter picking or climate justice. I bring with me not only a wide-reaching network, but also a systems perspective, practical experience, and a heart-led commitment to regeneration, not just for surviving, but for truly thriving.
For me, this role is the next chapter in a lifelong dedication to meaningful change, to cultivate resilience in people, in systems, and in the soil beneath our feet. I look forward to learning alongside you all.”
– Carolyn Dare, CAG East Devon Project Coordinator
If you’re in East Devon and would like Carolyn’s support, please get in touch: Carolyn.dare@resourcefutures.co.uk
