admin, Author at African Caribbean Community Initiative

Join Us for ACCI’s Rum & Reggae Race Day 2026

admin — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 11:39:12 +0000

We are delighted to invite you to the African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI) Rum & Reggae Race Day 2026, an exciting charity race event delivered in partnership with Wolverhampton Racecourse.

Location: Wolverhampton Racecourse, Dunstall Park, Gorsebrook Road, Wolverhampton, WV6 0PE
Date: Saturday 4^th April 2026
First Race: 15:15

This promises to be an unforgettable day of racing, culture, networking and celebration, all while supporting our vital community work across Wolverhampton and beyond.

What to Expect

We’ve brought together the very best of sport, culture and community for this special occasion. On the day, you can enjoy:

A thrilling afternoon of horse racing — seven races already confirmed
A vibrant African Caribbean Marketplace showcasing outstanding local businesses
Live reggae music from the fantastic Ultimate 40 Reggae Band
A lively, welcoming atmosphere celebrating African and Caribbean heritage

Early Bird Grandstand and General Admission tickets are available until 5th March, so we encourage you to book early and secure your place.

Hospitality Experience
– £85 + VAT per person

Our exclusive hospitality package is perfect for corporate entertaining, networking, or simply enjoying a fantastic day out with friends, family or colleagues.

Your hospitality experience includes:

A delicious three-course Caribbean-inspired meal (with a portion of proceeds donated directly to ACCI)
Tables of 10 or individual places on shared tables
Access to a private hospitality suite with bar open until midnight
Tote betting facilities within the room
Race card and professional tipster
Private DJ embracing the Rum & Reggae theme
Silent Auction — with 100% of proceeds donated to ACCI

Every ticket purchased helps us continue delivering essential services and support to our community.

Race Sponsorship Opportunity – £850 + VAT

Sponsoring a race is a powerful way to align your brand with a meaningful community cause while gaining exceptional visibility.

Your sponsorship package includes:

Naming a race after your business, special occasion or loved one
Brand exposure to a wide racing audience, broadcast on Sky Sports
Selecting the Best Turned Out Horse in the Parade Ring
Trophy presentation to the winning owners
Champagne with the winning connections
A framed presentation photograph as a keepsake

By sponsoring a race, you are directly investing in the future of our community.

Book Your Tickets Today

To book the hospitality experience or to sponsor a race, please contact: jpenman@wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk

To purchase General Admission tickets, please click below:

Can’t Attend But Want To Support?

You can still make a meaningful impact by:

Sponsoring a race and watching live on Sky Sports
Sponsoring a hospitality table in your company’s name for ACCI members
Donating an item for our Silent Auction (with recognition on the night)

We are incredibly grateful for your continued support. Together, we can celebrate culture, strengthen community connections, and raise vital funds to sustain and grow ACCI’s work.

We look forward to welcoming you on Saturday 4th April 2026.

The post Join Us for ACCI’s Rum & Reggae Race Day 2026 appeared first on African Caribbean Community Initiative.

International Women’s Day 2026: ACCI Presents “Harmony & Hope” at Wolverhampton Art Gallery

admin — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:13:04 +0000

The African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI) is proud to announce a vibrant celebration for International Women’s Day 2026, bringing the community together for an afternoon of inspiration, creativity, and empowerment.

Taking place at the iconic Wolverhampton Art Gallery on Tuesday 10^th March 2026, from 12:00 to 15:00, this special event, Harmony & Hope: Mental Health Empowerment Talent Show, promises to be a powerful showcase of talent, resilience, and unity.

A Celebration of Strength and Creativity

This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” encourages reflection on the power of generosity — whether that’s giving time, support, creativity, or compassion and how giving to others strengthens us all.

Guests can look forward to:

Powerful poetry and spoken word performances
Inspiring live performances
The stunning ACCI Catwalk
Meaningful conversations around mental health and empowerment.

The event highlights the importance of safe spaces where women and communities can share their voices, celebrate achievements, and promote positive mental wellbeing.

Free Entry. All Welcome

Entry is free, with donations warmly welcomed to support ACCI’s ongoing work within the community. Attendees are encouraged to wear a touch of purple — the international colour symbolising justice and dignity, in honour of International Women’s Day.

This celebration is open to everyone who believes in empowerment, equality, and the strength of community.

Secure Your Free Ticket

Spaces are limited, and early booking is encouraged. Reserve your place today by clicking on the link below.:

To purchase General Admission tickets, please click below.

Join us. Be inspired. Give to Gain.

The post International Women’s Day 2026: ACCI Presents “Harmony & Hope” at Wolverhampton Art Gallery appeared first on African Caribbean Community Initiative.

ACCI to Host Sponsor Appreciation Event at The Mount Hotel Country Manor

admin — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:17:10 +0000

The African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI) is delighted to announce its upcoming Sponsor Appreciation Event, taking place on Wednesday 11 February 2026, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, at the elegant Mount Hotel Country Manor in Wolverhampton.

This special afternoon has been thoughtfully curated to recognise and celebrate the incredible sponsors and partners whose ongoing support enables ACCI to continue its vital work. As an award-winning mental health charity, ACCI is committed to providing holistic, culturally responsive mental health support to Wolverhampton’s African and Caribbean community.

The event is a heartfelt expression of thanks to those whose contributions play a pivotal role in transforming lives and strengthening community wellbeing. Alongside existing sponsors, ACCI will also welcome a small number of prospective partners and professionals who are interested in exploring opportunities to collaborate with the charity through sponsorship, partnerships, or volunteering.

Who Should Attend

This event is ideally suited for:

Corporate and community partners supporting mental health and wellbeing
Professionals interested in identifying meaningful causes to support or fundraise for
Organisations interested in sponsorship or strategic partnerships
Individuals exploring volunteering opportunities with ACCI
Stakeholders and supporters who want to learn more about ACCI’s impact and future direction

What To Expect On The Day

Guests attending the Sponsor Appreciation Event can look forward to:

Exclusive insights into ACCI’s mission, impact, and future plans
Opportunities to connect with fellow sponsors, partners, and ACCI leadership
Engaging activities in a relaxed and inspiring setting
A deeper understanding of how continued support positively impacts ACCI’s Service Members

This event provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on collective achievements, strengthen relationships, and look ahead to the future of ACCI’s work within the community.

Register Now

Places are limited, and early confirmation is encouraged. Those wishing to attend can register via Eventbrite.

ACCI looks forward to welcoming supporters old and new for an afternoon of appreciation, connection, and shared purpose

The post ACCI to Host Sponsor Appreciation Event at The Mount Hotel Country Manor appeared first on African Caribbean Community Initiative.

Win a homemade Christmas fruit cake and support ACCI this festive season!

admin — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:00:26 +0000

ACCI is delighted to launch a special Christmas Cake Raffle to help us raise £200 in support of our members this festive season. Our wonderful Board of Trustee member, Janet, has lovingly baked and donated a beautifully crafted homemade Christmas fruit cake, the perfect treat to enjoy with friends and family this holiday.

If you missed out on Christmas cake this year, here’s your chance to win a delicious, handcrafted fruit cake and support a great cause at the same time!

How to Enter

Ticket Price: £5 per entry
How to Enter: Purchase tickets online via Enthuse or in person at ACCI
Raffle Closes: 11:59pm on Tuesday, 23 December 2025
Winner Announcement: Wednesday, 24 December 2025
Multiple Entries: Enter as many times as you like to boost your chances!

Why Take Part?

Every entry helps us reach our £200 fundraising goal, with all proceeds going directly toward supporting ACCI members. Your contribution helps us continue providing vital mental health support, culturally responsive services and meaningful resources to those who need them most.

How to Donate & Secure Your Ticket

Make your minimum donation of £5 using the url link to the Enthuse fundraiser page
Please include “Cake Raffle” in the comments section when submitting your donation.
Paying by card? Select Credit Card and enter your details.
Once your donation is confirmed, your entry will be automatically recorded.

Terms & Conditions

Participants must be 18 or over.
The winner must collect the cake from the ACCI office in Wolverhampton (no delivery available).
This raffle is not affiliated with Instagram and complies with Gambling Commission regulations.

Cake Information & Ingredients

This beautifully iced Christmas fruit cake was freshly baked in December 2025.

Self-Raising Flour – contains gluten (wheat)

Unsalted Butter, Milk, Brown Sugar, Molasses

Dried Mixed Fruits (currants, sultanas, raisins), cherries, sulphur dioxide

Eggs, white rum, rich ruby red wine, vanilla bean extract/vanilla flavouring, rose and almond essence

Bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, mixed spice (ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, clove)

Lemon juice, browning

Marzipan Ingredients: Sugar, almonds, glucose syrup, preservatives

Fondant Icing Ingredients: Sugar, glucose syrup, palm oil, water, glycerol, emulsifier, stabilisers, preservatives (potassium sorbate), flavouring.

Storage Information:

This iced fruit cake was made in December 2025.

Storage Options: Freeze or store in a cool place.

Consumption Period: Best consumed within 3-6 months of purchase.

Allergen Notice: Ingredients in bold contain one of the 14 allergens categorized by food standards regulations

May contain traces of nuts.

The post Win a homemade Christmas fruit cake and support ACCI this festive season! appeared first on African Caribbean Community Initiative.

ACCI Named Opus Prize Finalist and Awarded $150,000 in Historic First for a UK Charity

admin — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 14:05:33 +0000

The African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI) has been announced as a finalist for the internationally acclaimed Opus Prize, receiving a prestigious $150,000 award in recognition of its decades-long commitment to culturally appropriate mental health support and community empowerment in Wolverhampton and across the West Midlands.

The Opus Prize is one of the world’s largest faith-based humanitarian awards, honouring organisations and leaders from any faith tradition who demonstrate exceptional dedication to addressing persistent social challenges with innovation, dignity, and compassion. While the prize is presented in partnership with Catholic universities in the United States, recipients may come from all backgrounds.

This year marks a historic achievement: ACCI is the first UK-based charity ever to be recognised as an Opus Prize finalist.

A Milestone Moment for ACCI

CEO Alicia Spence and Health and Wellbeing Practitioner Candeece Harvey represented the charity at the awards ceremony held on Thursday 13 November 2025 at Xavier University of Louisiana, where they accepted the honour on behalf of the organisation and the wider Wolverhampton community.

The recognition comes at a crucial time for UK charities, many of which are navigating significant funding cuts and increasing demand for services. As ACCI nears its 40th anniversary, the award brings renewed hope, global acknowledgment, and a powerful affirmation of the organisation’s vital work.

Reflections from ACCI Leadership

Alicia Spence, CEO of ACCI, described the experience as transformative:

"It was truly a phenomenal experience and a huge accomplishment being a finalist in the Opus Foundation award ceremony. The event, hosted in collaboration with Xavier University in New Orleans, provided a vibrant, energising and inspiring environment. We are in a climate where negative energies often surround us, but this occasion shifted the focus to positive opportunities—allowing us to network, build meaningful global relationships, and appreciate the invaluable work of so many unsung heroes. The space Opus Foundation and Xavier University created was once in a lifetime. I will always remain immensely grateful and proud."

Alicia Spence

CEO

"Being part of this experience has been truly inspiring. Connecting with other finalists from around the world deepened our understanding of the gaps within our own community—and the opportunities we have to address them. Witnessing the incredible global work on display sparked new ideas and fresh approaches to uplift our members and the wider Wolverhampton community. What stood out most was the shared heart and passion for service. Despite different cultures and countries, we were united by one purpose: to change lives, strengthen communities, and bring hope. It would be an honour for ACCI to reconnect with the finalists and Xavier University to explore future collaboration. This experience has broadened our vision and deepened our commitment to serving with creativity, compassion, and unity."

Candeece Harvey

Health and Wellbeing Practitioner

"We were thrilled to celebrate you, your team, and the entire community of ACCI! Thank you for sharing your inspiring stories with the Xavier students and with their friends and partners in New Orleans. What a week!”

Daniel M. McGinty

Ed.D. Executive Director Opus Foundation

A Global Recognition of Local Impact

For ACCI, the Opus Prize is more than an award, it is a global endorsement of the power of community connection, cultural understanding, and accessible, culturally grounded mental health support. It highlights Wolverhampton as a place of world-leading innovation in community-led mental health care.

The post ACCI Named Opus Prize Finalist and Awarded $150,000 in Historic First for a UK Charity appeared first on African Caribbean Community Initiative.

Cost-of-Living Crisis Leaves Children Without Beds, ACCI Calls for your help

admin — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 07:30:08 +0000

The Good Night Project, launched by Wolverhampton City Council in response to the cost of living crisis, continues to experience high demand across the city. The project was created after it became clear that many families, including young children were facing the heartbreaking reality of having to sleep on the floor.

In partnership with the African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI), the Good Night Project has made a significant impact over the past year. Since its launch in 2023, the project has provided:

621 beds
674 mattresses
246 bedding sets
24 cots

These essential items have ensured that vulnerable families across Wolverhampton have safe, warm, and suitable sleeping arrangements.

Demand remains high
across the city

Despite the extraordinary support given so far, need remains urgent. The project continues to receive around 25 referrals every week, with particularly high demand for cots, toddler beds, and beds for children.

Requests for support are spread throughout Wolverhampton, with the highest number of referrals coming from:

St. Peter’s – 177 referrals
Heath Town – 176 referrals
Bushbury South & Low Hill – 122 referrals

Areas with the lowest demand included Penn (15) and Tettenhall Regis (18).

To date, the council has allocated £130,000 through the Government’s Household Support Fund to assist the project. While efforts are being made to ensure the project becomes self-sufficient, ongoing community support remains essential.

Appeal for Donations: Cots, Toddler Beds, and Children’s Beds Urgently Needed

With demand still exceptionally high, the Good Night Project is appealing for donations, particularly:

Toddler beds
Children’s single beds
Double and triple bunk beds
Cots

ACCI highlight the impact

"Demand has remained high over the last 12 months. Bunk beds in particular have allowed many children to move from sharing beds with siblings to having their own place to sleep. Our supply of cots, especially after an early donation of over 100 from Kinder Valley, is now running low, so any help to replenish those stocks is greatly appreciated."

Phil Dixon

Project Co-ordinator

"ACCI is proud to partner with the City Council to deliver such an important service to some of Wolverhampton’s most vulnerable residents. A warm, safe, and comfortable place to sleep is a basic human right. We extend our heartfelt thanks to every individual, family, and organisation that has supported the Good Night Project as it enters its third year"

Alicia Spence

CEO

How to donate or apply
for support

To donate a bed, cot, or bedding—or to apply for help from the Good Night Project—please visit The Good Night Project page on our website.

If you do not have items to donate but still wish to contribute, cash donations are also welcomed and make an immediate difference to families in need.

The post Cost-of-Living Crisis Leaves Children Without Beds, ACCI Calls for your help appeared first on African Caribbean Community Initiative.

ACCI Celebrates Over Four Years of Impactful Partnership with Lloyds Bank Foundation

admin — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:25:30 +0000

The African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI) is proud to celebrate over four years of partnership with Lloyds Bank Foundation (the Foundation), a collaboration that has created lasting impact for both our members and the wider community.

Since the partnership began, the Foundation has continuously demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting ACCI’s mission and the members we serve. They have organised several fundraisers to help sustain our vital work and have taken part in mental health awareness training, strengthening their understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in our community. The Foundation has also provided financial literacy training for ACCI members, empowering individuals to improve their relationship with money and make more informed financial decisions.

“The partnership with Lloyds Bank Foundation has been mutually beneficial. Over the years, the Foundation has become part of the ACCI family.”

Alicia Spence

CEO

In addition to their fundraising and training efforts, the Foundation has played a key role in supporting the annual ACCI Gala, ensuring its continued success. They have kept ACCI at the forefront of charitable giving within their organisation, championing our work and advocating for collaboration across sectors. The Foundation has also helped to create valuable networking opportunities, connecting ACCI with other businesses, organisations and individuals who share our commitment to community wellbeing.

“Partnerships with institutions like Lloyds Bank Foundation are incredibly poignant and impactful. Mental health is a scale we all exist on, and anything can happen at any time to tip those scales, so it is all of our responsibilities to ensure we are doing our part, our relationship with the Foundation is a brilliant testament of this.”

Elisha Frimpong

Community Network Development Manager

A particularly impactful aspect of this partnership has been the way the Foundation has adopted ACCI’s holistic approach to better support our members in local branches. Together, we have created pathways for members with no fixed address to open simple bank accounts if they are known to ACCI. Staff are also encouraged, when appropriate to contact ACCI directly if a known member attends a branch in distress or unwell, allowing situations to be handled with care and compassion rather than escalation.

Most recently, following the relocation of their headquarters, the Foundation once again stepped forward with generosity and practical support, donating 15 computer monitors, along with keyboards, mice, office chairs, and several boxes filled with stationery and office supplies — contributions that have been instrumental in helping deliver services.

“The support from Lloyds Bank Foundation has allowed us to further extend our service by providing financial and practical support for our members, staff and the local community.”

Dawn Anderson-Riley

Compliance & Monitoring Officer

Get Involved

If you are a business looking to find out how you can do your part and make a real difference in your community, get in touch with ACCI today on 01902 571230 to explore partnership opportunities.

The post ACCI Celebrates Over Four Years of Impactful Partnership with Lloyds Bank Foundation appeared first on African Caribbean Community Initiative.

Take on the ACCI Marathon Challenge: 26 Miles in 32 Days!

admin — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 09:30:41 +0000

Get Moving for a Great Cause

Get ready to move for a great cause! ACCI invites you to join the Marathon in a Month Challenge — a fun and flexible way to get active while raising vital funds to support our community work. Whether you prefer to walk, run, swim or cycle, this challenge is all about reaching 26 miles over 32 days — your pace, your way!

Everyone Can Take Part

You don’t need to be a seasoned athlete to take part. Every step, stroke or pedal counts towards making a difference. The challenge is open to everyone, whether you take on the distance solo, with friends or as a team. You can track your progress using any fitness app and share your journey on social media to inspire others to get involved.

Make a Difference in Your Community

All funds raised will go directly towards ACCI’s essential services, supporting individuals and families through mental health recovery, advocacy and community empowerment. By taking on this challenge, you’re not only improving your own wellbeing but also helping others take steps towards a brighter future.

Ready, Set, Go!

So lace up your trainers, dive in or hop on your bike — and see just how far you can go for ACCI!

The post Take on the ACCI Marathon Challenge: 26 Miles in 32 Days! appeared first on African Caribbean Community Initiative.

ACCI Named Finalist for 2025 Opus Prize

admin — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 10:27:00 +0000

We are delighted to share that ACCI has been officially selected as a finalist for the 2025 Opus Prize, a prestigious faith-based humanitarian award recognising outstanding social entrepreneurship.

What is the Opus Prize?

The Opus Prize celebrates organisations driven by faith-inspired values to enact transformative change in communities worldwide. The selection process is rigorous and confidential, involving nominations from Catholic university partners, due diligence site visits, and careful evaluation of mission alignment, impact, and potential for scaling.

When and where is the award?

The award ceremony will take place at Xavier University of Louisiana on Thursday, 13^th November 2025, as the culmination of Opus Prize Week.

What this means for ACCI

Validation of our work: Being named a finalist acknowledges the social innovation, faith-driven ethos, and community impact that ACCI delivers.
Increased visibility: We gain recognition among a global community of changemakers and humanitarian leaders.
Growth opportunity: Should we win, the significant monetary award and associated support will catalyse the next phase of our mission.

A Word from Our CEO

"This recognition is a true testament to the passion and commitment of the entire ACCI family and our partners on the ground. To be named a finalist for the Opus Prize is not only an honour but also a reminder of the importance of our mission to serve communities with compassion, dignity, and hope. We look forward to sharing our story on the global stage at Xavier University this November."

Alicia Spence

CEO

What Comes Next?

Our leadership team will prepare further for the award ceremony and associated events.
We’ll share internal updates as we receive them from the Opus Prize Foundation.
Please join us in celebrating this milestone and continue supporting our collective mission.

This is a momentous achievement for ACCI, and we’re honoured to share the journey forward with every member of our team. Well done, team, and here’s to even greater impact ahead!

The post ACCI Named Finalist for 2025 Opus Prize appeared first on African Caribbean Community Initiative.

ACCI Premieres ‘Take A Seat’ Video Series

admin — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:15:58 +0000

ACCI to Premiere Powerful
'Take A Seat' Video Series at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre for Mental Health Awareness Week

The African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI) is proud to announce the premiere of its moving new video series, ‘Take A Seat’, taking place on Wednesday, 21st May 2025, at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. This special event marks ACCI’s contribution to Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, and promises to be an inspiring and thought-provoking evening.

Hosted by renowned actress and community advocate Tonia Daley-Campbell, the event will lift the curtain on a deeply personal and powerful video series, offering a behind-the-scenes look into the lives of ACCI members, staff, and sponsors. The stories shared are a testament to the strength, challenges, and resilience of those advocating for better mental health support within the African Caribbean community.

Event Details:

Date: Wednesday, 21st May 2025
Location: Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
Time: Doors open at 17:30 | Event starts promptly at 18:00

What to Expect:

The premiere screening of the Take A Seat video series
Firsthand stories from those featured in the films
An opportunity to meet the individuals and allies championing mental health equity in our community

Every seat taken at this event sends a powerful message of solidarity and support.

Spaces are limited – don’t miss your chance to be part of this inspiring evening. Click on the link below to secure your place.

We look forward to welcoming you for what promises to be a memorable and meaningful event.

The post ACCI Premieres ‘Take A Seat’ Video Series appeared first on African Caribbean Community Initiative.

admin, Author at African Caribbean Community Initiative

Join Us for ACCI’s Rum & Reggae Race Day 2026

What to Expect

Hospitality Experience – £85 + VAT per person

Race Sponsorship Opportunity – £850 + VAT

Book Your Tickets Today

Can’t Attend But Want To Support?

International Women’s Day 2026: ACCI Presents “Harmony & Hope” at Wolverhampton Art Gallery

A Celebration of Strength and Creativity

Free Entry. All Welcome

Secure Your Free Ticket

ACCI to Host Sponsor Appreciation Event at The Mount Hotel Country Manor

Who Should Attend

What To Expect On The Day

Register Now

Win a homemade Christmas fruit cake and support ACCI this festive season!

How to Enter

Why Take Part?

How to Donate & Secure Your Ticket

Terms & Conditions

Cake Information & Ingredients

Storage Information:

ACCI Named Opus Prize Finalist and Awarded $150,000 in Historic First for a UK Charity

A Milestone Moment for ACCI

Reflections from ACCI Leadership

A Global Recognition of Local Impact

Cost-of-Living Crisis Leaves Children Without Beds, ACCI Calls for your help

Demand remains high across the city

Appeal for Donations: Cots, Toddler Beds, and Children’s Beds Urgently Needed

ACCI highlight the impact

How to donate or apply for support

ACCI Celebrates Over Four Years of Impactful Partnership with Lloyds Bank Foundation

Take on the ACCI Marathon Challenge: 26 Miles in 32 Days!

Get Moving for a Great Cause

Everyone Can Take Part

Make a Difference in Your Community

Ready, Set, Go!

ACCI Named Finalist for 2025 Opus Prize

What is the Opus Prize?

When and where is the award?

What this means for ACCI

A Word from Our CEO

What Comes Next?

ACCI Premieres ‘Take A Seat’ Video Series

ACCI to Premiere Powerful 'Take A Seat' Video Series at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre for Mental Health Awareness Week

Hospitality Experience
– £85 + VAT per person

Demand remains high
across the city

How to donate or apply
for support

ACCI to Premiere Powerful
'Take A Seat' Video Series at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre for Mental Health Awareness Week