'˜Community Oscar' for Foyle Down Syndrome Trust

They scooped a top award in the Cities Competition at the annual Pride of Place Awards ceremony.

Speaking about the Community Enterprise Initiative project the judges said they “were inspired and humbled by this winning entry and to witness the level of maturity that shone through at this very well-run organisation. This organisation undertakes home visits, one to one development sessions and summer schemes for three different age ranges”.

“In addition, a kitchen and a new sensory room have been installed. It was clear to the judges that the network for families provided within this group is invaluable and appreciated by all those served.”

The winners were announced at a gala event in the Belfast Waterfront in front of an audience of approximately 1,000 guests and VIPs with many more people tuning in on-line to watch the live broadcast of the ceremony.

Now in their 14th year, the all-island Pride of Place Awards promote and celebrate the best in community development and recognises the selfless efforts of people in making their neighbourhoods better places to live, work and socialise.

The winners were presented with their awards by Lord Mayor of Belfast, Alderman Brian Kingston, Councillor Matt Garrett, chairperson of Belfast City Council’s People and Communities Committee, Dr. Christopher Moran, chairman Co-operation Ireland, Tom Dowling, chairman of the Pride of Place Committee and George Jones, chairman of IPB, the event sponsors.