Leeds-based charity Together for Peace has won a national award recognizing their efforts to bridge cultures and to build trust and respect between people.
T4P won the Institute of Community Cohesion, Award for Bridging Cultures (ABC) at a ceremony in London. The group was shortlisted from nearly 200 entries and was the winner in their group.
Together for Peace has worked with over 150 partners and developed a wide range of events and projects since it was founded in 2002. All the work aims to strengthen communities, deepen intercultural understanding and promote peace-making.
During the award ceremony in LondonRanjit Sondhi, chair of the ABC judging panel said:
"The judges highlighted that this project used a comprehensive range of activities to promote intercultural dialogue and related to a wide range of partners and volunteers.
"Its modest, flexible approach allows the project to respond to new developments and opportunities. Judges welcomed its aim of strengthening the relational fabric of the city. They felt it was important this project continued if it was to have real impact."
Funded by the Baring Foundation, the ABCs reward grassroots projects, run by community and voluntary organisations, that help to build bridges between communities and cultures.
Jill Mann of T4P said:
"We were surprised to win and we're really grateful for the recognition the award provides for the work we are doing. It feels good to be recognized, but we don't do it for the recognition, we do it to make a positive contribution to our city. We know we couldn't do this work without our partners so we'd like to thank everyone that we have worked with over the years.
"This award validates everyone we've worked with and a partnership way of working. It is a real privilege to work with such a diverse range of individuals and organizations across the city and we're looking forward to how the work can deepen and develop in 2011.
"We are committed to work that creates bridges and links between people and diverse groups. One development in our work is around creating safe spaces for conversations, especially difficult ones."
