County Durham Community Foundation

The Genesis Project, a community project based in Grove Hill, Middlesbrough, has been awarded one of the first King’s Awards for Voluntary Service in the category of promoting opportunity through social mobility.

The King’s Awards for Voluntary Service are the highest award given to volunteer groups across the UK and are the equivalent of an MBE for voluntary service. They are awarded to groups that are outstanding, volunteer-led, and benefit their local communities.

The Genesis Project, which was established 20 years ago, provides a range of services and activities for the whole family, including a community garden, a lunch club, a food bank, a youth club and gym, a parent and toddler group, and a craft group. The project aims to share the love and compassion of Jesus Christ with the local community, especially those who are struggling with poverty, isolation, mental health issues, and addiction.

The Reverend Kath Dean, the Chair of the Genesis Project, said: “We are absolutely delighted and honoured to receive this prestigious award. It is a recognition of the hard work and dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters, who have made this project possible. We are passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of the people we serve, and we are grateful for the opportunity to showcase our work on a national level.”

The Genesis Project has been supported by the County Durham Community Foundation, which has funded the project as part of its Poverty Hurts campaign. The campaign aims to raise awareness and funds to fight poverty and enrich lives in County Durham and the surrounding areas.

Dr Michelle Cooper, the Chief Executive of the County Durham Community Foundation, said: “We are very proud of The Genesis Project and their amazing achievement. They’re a shining example of how a grassroots community project can transform a neighbourhood and give people a chance to create a better, brighter future.

“We’re glad to have supported them with a grant from the Poverty Hurts fund, and we hope their success will inspire others to get involved and make a difference.”

The Genesis Project will receive the award from one of the King’s representatives, a Lord-Lieutenant, at a ceremony at their premises. They will also be invited to a Royal reception and be able to use the King’s Award emblem on their marketing materials.

ENDS

NEWS RELEASE: ISSUED ON BEHALF OF COUNTY DURHAM COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

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NOTES TO EDITORS

https://www.cdcf.org.uk

County Durham Community Foundation works with local communities to fund projects that enrich lives and fight poverty. Founded 28 years ago, the Foundation connects people who love to give with local causes that really matter.