SOLIHULL groups took part in a celebration of strength and diversity as part of the first West Midlands Mayor’s Community Weekend since the pandemic.
The weekend of community-led activity took place thanks to a partnership between the West Midlands Mayor Andy Street, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest community funder in the UK.
The Solihull Moors Foundation hosted a community fun day as part of the celebrations.
Also, Solihull Down Syndrome Support Group raised awareness of the Down syndrome community in the area with an awareness walk around Brueton Park, followed by a picnic to celebrate and strengthen local connections.
Meanwhile, Snooty Pooch canine café and community hub in Drury Lane celebrated volunteers with a range of performances, activities and the creation of a permanent art display.
Communities were invited to apply for grants between £500 and £2,000, to host activities across the two-day event, on September 9 and 10, that encouraged different groups to come together to strengthen connections and build new relationships.
Mr Street said: “It was wonderful to see and meet so many local groups right across our region coming together this weekend to celebrate the diversity and community spirit that is in such abundant supply here.
“We were determined to bring the Mayor’s Community Weekend back this year – bigger and better than ever before – with more funding secured and grants increased to help local people get involved and put on great events.
“I’m grateful to the more than 100 organisations who participated in this weekend, and the more than 250 organisations who directly contributed to its success.”
