Derry will become the first District of Hope this Friday, April 25, with a special walk from Ebrington Square to the Guildhall.
‘Making Hope Happen’ is a partnership initiative with Resilio and North West Community Network supported by the Western Trust and Derry GP Federation Multidisciplinary Social Work Teams and has been endorsed by the Mayor.
The collaboration marks as significant milestone as Derry embarks Derry on becoming the First District of Hope in an era described as one of uncertainty and despair for many.
The Western Trust say: “On Friday 25th April we are leading a Walk of Hope from Ebrington Square to the Guildhall at 10:45AM.
“P7 classes throughout the District were invited to take part in designing a flag of HOPE. Young people will lead the walk carrying the winning flag.
“The young people will present the flag to the Mayor at the Guildhall followed by a number of activities – a HOPE Human Library, HOPE Workshops and music.
“Everyone is welcome to attend.
“Individuals, groups, schools, workplaces are encouraged to organise their own HOPE event in the lead-up to the 25th April.
“These events will provide opportunities for individuals to activate hope by coming together.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Seenoi-Barr, said: “I am delighted to support this initiative. We would encourage everyone to support the HOPE event on Friday 25th April 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.”
Roisin Mc Laughlin, Manager of North West Community Network said: “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.
“We encourage everyone to come and join us on the 25th April.”
Marie Dunne, Director of Resilio said: ‘We are delighted to have the support of the Western Trust who are facilitating a HOPE Chat Tea Train on 16th April, as well as Ulster University who are also hosting a HOPE event.
“Through the collective efforts of RESILIO, North West Community Network, we hope to make a lasting impact on our communities by fostering a culture of hope and resilience.
“A community where hope is not just a concept but a lived reality and together we will activate the power to uplift, inspire and transform lives.”
Shona McEleney, GP Social Work Assistant said: “Our GP Multidisciplinary Teams are delighted to get involved this year with the District of Hope initiative.
“As part of the Walk of Hope event on 25 April we have organised a Chat Tea Train of Hope event on 16 April which helps to connect older people from the Derry area and promotes social and emotional wellbeing.
“Participants will have the opportunity to discuss what hope means to them and how they can help support their own mental health to create a Sunflower montage.
“We are looking forward to participating in this wonderful Walk of Hope event on 25 April and would encourage everyone young and old from the Derry City area to come along and take part in the many events over the coming months.
“If you plant seeds of Hope you can see it flourish!”
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