Charity hails success of project to boost environment

YMCA Derbyshire has hailed the success of project designed to enhance environmental awareness, promote sustainability and strengthen community ties.

Since early 2023, the charity has been working with several organisations and schools across Derbyshire as part of its Green Connector project.

It engaged local residents, schools, and businesses in a variety of green activities to create a more sustainable and connected community.

A total of 167 individuals from a variety of organisations volunteered their time and effort across the project to establish and maintain local community gardens, plant trees and plants, litter-pick, and tidy local communal areas.

This hard work meant that 5,367 square metres of green space in Derby was either created or improved, 60 trees were planted, and five new community gardens were established.

Gillian Sewell, chief executive of YMCA Derbyshire, said: “The Green Connector project has been a remarkable journey for us all.

“It’s inspiring to see how our community has come together to make a real difference for the environment and for each other.

“We look forward to continuing this important work and building an even greener, more connected Derbyshire.”

Participants who took part in the Green Connector project have reported increased feelings of well-being, a deeper connection to their neighbours, and a greater appreciation for the natural world.

By providing opportunities for learning, collaboration, and action, the project has empowered individuals to make positive changes in their lives and their community.

Lorraine Sheath, assistant headteacher at St Joseph’s Catholic Voluntary Academy, said: “I want to express my heartfelt thanks for the fantastic work the team in the Green Connector project have done in creating the flowerbed and vegetable sleepers for our school children.

“The sleepers not only enhance the aesthetics of our school grounds but also encourage our students to engage with nature and learn valuable lessons about cooperation and teamwork.

“I believe that partnerships with organisations like YMCA are essential in enriching the educational experiences of our students and fostering a sense of community spirit.”