Exeter Community Initiatives (ECI) is a long-standing local charity, proudly supporting individuals and strengthening communities across the Greater Exeter area for over 30 years. Our mission is to foster a vibrant, connected community where everyone feels included, valued, and empowered to lead happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. We have a commitment to enhancing the prosperity and wellbeing of the local area.

Our Work and Who We Support
ECI offers a diverse range of impactful projects that respond to local need:
Family Resource works with families who have been victims of crime or domestic abuse and facing complex challenges. We help develop the skills to move forward as happy, healthy families.
Magic Carpet offers art and drama therapy for adults with learning disabilities and mental health difficulties.
Transitions provides workshops and coaching on the practical and emotional challenges people encounter daily.
Jelly is our award-winning children’s charity shop in Exeter that sells preloved, high-quality items at affordable prices.
Community Builders bring residents together, grow ideas and make the community a better place to live.

Real Impact, Real Numbers 2024/2025

• 153 families and 1,912 hours dedicated to victims of crime and domestic abuse
• 80+ people, 580+ hours of community care support through art and drama sessions for adults with learning and mental health difficulties
• 108 people supported though mental health and self-help workshops and 101 1-1 coaching, through our Transitions project
• 30+ years of embedded community leadership in Exeter

Our work reaches people of all ages and backgrounds—families, individuals with mental or physical health challenges, and people seeking routes into employment or training. In 2024 alone, we supported over 1,300 individuals directly, while engaging with thousands more through community events and volunteering initiatives.

If you would like to support us then please get in touch!