AS Derry City and Strabane District Council embarks on a journey towards becoming the first District of Hope, a series of events will take place this Friday and Saturday.
In an era of uncertainty and despair for many, hopelessness is regarded as one of the prime predictors for poor mental health and suicide.
This weekend ‘Making Hope Happen’ – a partnership initiative between RESILIO and the North West Community Network – is encouraging individuals, groups, schools and workplaces to come together.
The events are being organised alongside separate celebrations by Ulster University and North West Regional College.
On Friday young people from Ardnashee School and Oakgrove College will gather in Ebrington Square to map out the letters of HOPE. Then on Saturday the attention to turns to the Guildhall with events running from 1pm to 5pm.
Mayor Patricia Logue is endorsing all the celebrations.
She said, “I am delighted to support this initiative. We would encourage everyone to support the Hope event on Saturday in the Guildhall. This dynamic initiative is a testament to our commitment to fostering a culture of optimism, resilience, and progress within our communities and beyond.”
Manager of North West Community Network, Roisin McLaughlin, added, “Making Hope Happen embodies a spirit of collaboration and unity and this has been evident by the number of groups who have come on board to activate this initiative across the district.”
Marie Dunne is Director of Resilio. She said, “Through the collective efforts of Resilio, North West Community Network and supported by National Lottery Community Fund, we plan to make a lasting impact on our community by fostering a culture of hope and resilience.
“As we embark on this collective journey we reaffirm our commitment to build a community where hope is not just a concept but a lived reality and together we have the power to uplift, inspire and transform lives.”
(Main photo of stone on beach: Nick Fewings/Unsplash)