A CHARITY which provides services and support for vulnerable or disadvantaged people in Worcestershire and Herefordshire is among the latest round of businesses to back Worcester’s Big Parade.
Onside will collaborate with Worcester’s Big Parade to promote mental health awareness to thousands of residents and visitors enjoying the eight-week elephant-themed sculpture trail.
The charity’s elephant will not only add a splash of colour to city streets and public spaces but it’s hoped will also open up a dialogue about the challenges some are facing in the community and signpost them to local help and guidance.
Kate Harvey, Onside Chief Executive, said: “This will be such an important event this summer; encouraging people to get out and about again and reconnect with family, friends and the outdoors.
“We’re keen to signpost support services available, promote ways to improve mental health and wellbeing including highlighting how people can become more engaged and active in their communities
A Wild in Art event being brought to Worcester by St Richard’s Hospice, Worcester’s Big Parade will also help raise funds for patients affected by life limiting illnesses and their loved ones. The project builds on the hugely successful Worcester Stands Tall giraffe trail in 2018, which saw giraffe sculptures displayed across the city before raising £210,000 for St Richard’s at auction.
Worcester Bosch is the latest company to sponsor an elephant for Worcester’s Big Parade and has also funded two smaller elephants to be designed and decorated by Onside Advocacy and Perdiswell Young People’s Leisure Club.
Sue Pennington, corporate communications manager at Worcester Bosch, said: “It’s a cause which is very close to our team’s heart, with many having experienced the hospice’s work first-hand.
“We also have an interest in the arts and environment so were quick to get involved with Worcester Stands Tall back in 2018 and loved being part of such a wonderful community event.
“We became so attached to our giraffe ‘Chameleondalis’, it still stands proudly in our reception today.”
While all elephant calves have been adopted by local schools and community groups, some large elephant sponsorships remain.
Call 01905 763963 and ask for Sara Matthews, e-mail [email protected] or visit https://worcestersbigparade.co.uk/get-involved for more.
