In honour of World Gratitude Day, on the 19th September the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues turned Victoria Square into a ‘Gratitude Space’ where people could reflect on and celebrate all that they are grateful for.
Members of the public and young people from Birmingham’s schools were invited to contribute to the ‘walls of gratitude’ lining the square by writing a thank you letter, completing a gratitude sticker or chalking a message of thanks on the blackboard.
Children and teachers from Bursted Wood Primary School, Park View Academy, Kings Rise Academy and St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School wrote and drew about what they are grateful for. Hundreds of members of the public added their gratitude messages and stopped to read the previous contributions.
People showed gratitude for a diverse range of things, including friends, bees, family, pets, freedom, love, coffee, travel, new experiences, nature and family support. You can see photos of the day, including all of the gratitude boards, here.
People attending were also able to have their face painted, watch performances from a steel band and circus performers, and see the Thank You Film Awards films made by young people across the UK.
The press release for the event can be found here.
The day was run in collaboration with Hark Pictures, who will produce a documentary about gratitude. For more information, please contact Danielle Wartnaby at d.l.wartnaby@bham.ac.uk or on 0121 414 4439.