engage - The new name for Chesterfest

engage is a project 12 years in the making and building on the success of a one-day event in Hoole in 1997. This one day developed into a week long Hoolefest, in 2004 and then Chesterfest in 2007. Each year it has grown to include more people and to have an even greater impact on local communities. 20 local Churches have partnered with local businesses and agencies to deliver a week-long youth and community program.

Young people have grown in confidence as they have understood their value and significance as well as building character, self-esteem and teamwork. Residents are served by their positive social contribution and build a positive perception of all ages.

A key part of engage are CAKE (Community Acts of Kindness Experience) projects involving active citizenship for young people (aged 11-18) and adults to:
•   Improve urban areas, green spaces, allotments, housing and Nature Parks.
•   Running children’s holiday clubs.
•    Running community cohesion activities.
•   Supporting work in old peoples’ homes.
•   Improving community areas and resources.

In the last 3 years, there have been over 120 young people involved in over 20 projects with a team of over 50 youth leaders each year plus even more adult volunteers involved in CAKE. At the start of each day there is training, teaching and discussion groups for young people with evening entertainment and activities for young people to provide the opportunity to build friendships across the city.

In 2007 Chesterfest was awarded the prestigious Chester ‘Team of the Year’ by Chester Chronicle and Scottish Power.

More details on engage 2010 to follow soon. Check back here for details.