Winner: East Belfast (represented by East Belfast Community Development Agency)

Summary

East Belfast Community Development Agency (EBCDA) was established in 1970 as East Belfast Youth Council. In 1973, it became East Belfast Community Council and eventually in 1996, EBCDA. Membership comprises community groups in an area with a population of almost 94,000 people. A broad range of interests and needs is represented and it encompasses a variety of groups including local residents' associations, faith based organisations, sports clubs, older people's projects and women's groups. EBCDA exists to provide resources, support and capacity building programmes for community groups that are based on partnership, equal opportunities and sustainable outcomes. The role of EBCDA is to add value to the activity undertaken by groups in local areas and to work with key organisations to ensure the continued development of a community sector in East Belfast is recognised, valued and effective. EBCDA seeks to support successful community development, encourage reflective practice and promote co-operation and locally based solutions.
Community Contact: Michael Briggs [email protected]

Citation

The judges really valued their visit to this extraordinary organization. Responding to an area of over 100,000 people who are dealing with massive job loss- the judges were left with a greater appreciation of the issues and demands impacting this whole community. The judges found that the approach to strengthen the many voluntary organizations servicing this community proved impressive, successful, and a great model for others to replicate.

Runner up: Newry, Co Down (represented by Magnet Young Adult Centre)