The Lord Mayor of Leeds joins our annual Community Engagement Event

We were delighted to welcome The Lord Mayor of Leeds Councillor Abigail Marhsall Katung to our annual Community Engagement Event. The Lord Mayor joined several of our supporters and partners for an inspiring morning, as we visited 3 community organisations that have received funding from Leeds Community Foundation. 

The event provided first-hand insight into the vital role community organisations play in our city, and the wide range of support and opportunities they offer for local people. It also demonstrated the power of collective impact, showing what can be achieved when we work together to invest in these much-needed organisations. 

Our first stop was Kirkstall Valley Farm, a community farm in the urban heart of Kirkstall, which provides weekly fresh veg to the local community. It also offers opportunities for people to get involved with the farm and learn new skills. 

From there, we visited Shantona Women’s and Family Services where we heard about the services they offer to empower women, strengthen families and build communities. Their support helps people to challenge inequalities, avoid discrimination and marginalisation, gain access to services and reach their full potential. 

Our final stop of the day was Burmantofts Community Friends, where we joined their members for a spot of lunch and a game of bingo. We heard how their support helps local people to live independently in their own homes, connect and socialise, and access useful services and assistance. 

The morning was made possible thanks to First Bus, who provided a zero emissions bus and driver to transport us and our guests safely and sustainably. 

Reflecting on the day, The Lord Mayor said ‘If you want to go fast you go on your own, if you want to go far, you do it together’. 

Steph Taylor, Chief Executive of Leeds Community Foundation said ‘Community organisations are the backbone of our city. They provide essential support for local people each and every day. We’re ambitious about investing in them, so they can do more of what they do best. Let’s work together to make Leeds a fairer city for everyone.’ 

If you want to learn more about how you can join us to make even more of a difference together, take a look at the ways you can support the Foundation here.