Manchester has great communities, with people and groups who make a real difference. Manchester City Council wants to say thanks to these people, make sure they are recognised and show them they are appreciated for what they do. 
Who goes that extra mile where you live? Those individuals or groups who do lots for their neighbourhoods, and create that buzz.
The Be Proud Awards exist to celebrate the swarms of volunteers and the unsung heroes that make 'Our Manchester' great. It’s the perfect way to thank these extraordinary individuals and groups for their hard work in helping others.
Get nominating them so they can have their moment in the spotlight.
There are 12 categories to choose from:
Special Recognition - sponsored by We Love MCR Charity
Specifically recognises the strength of our city’s response to the tragic Manchester Arena attack in May. Use this category to nominate a person, project or organisation that stood tall and helped the community or neighbourhood pull through. Who really stepped up to the mark at the time of the attack or in the time since?
Blossoming Communities - sponsored by Southway Housing
Those whose gardening glories or care of green spaces have changed the surroundings and lives of people who live, learn or work nearby. Give a green thumbs-up to the green fingers who make Manchester’s neighbourhoods more attractive.
Bringing Communities Together - sponsored by Wythenshawe Forum
For projects and events that bring people together in friendship to celebrate their diverse cultures and heritage. Manchester communities stand together for equality and inclusion – let’s reward those bringing these values to life.
Business in the Community - sponsored by Manchester Airport
Focusing on the businesses that really put something extra back into their community: it could be staff time, skills or money. Good businesses make our city tick – let’s support the ones who make good neighbours too.
Clean Neighbourhood - sponsored by Biffa
This could be for a project, an exceptional individual, or a group that has worked to involve the community in keeping their neighbourhood clean for all, through organising clean-ups, taking a stand against flytipping, or raising awareness of how to report any issues.
Community Force - sponsored by Manchester City Council
Acknowledge a person or group that has stood up to adversity, worked hard to keep their neighbourhoods safe, or helped make their community proud of where they live. Nominate those making our city a peaceful, welcoming place.
Community Project of the Year - sponsored by Manchester Arndale
Recognising fresh thinking at the heart of a neighbourhood that unites people and brings an idea, that’s important to them, to life. It could be something in a park, school, library, community or leisure centre, local shops or anywhere else in the community that’s special to those who live there. Let’s say thank you to those team players who’ve worked together to make something great happen.
Creativity in the Community - sponsored by Sculpture Hall Cafe
Nominate any creative project that strengthens communities and benefits people: from community arts, writing, reading and music, to creative use of technology or social media. Manchester is a hive of creativity – let’s applaud the ones who make it buzz.
Neighbour of the Year - sponsored by One Manchester
A perfect opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to a neighbour whose kindness, practical help and support have made a real difference to you or your community. Let’s recognise how special they are.
Recycling Project of the Year - sponsored by Redgate
Let’s celebrate people who’ve found great ways to get others recycling more; from neighbours and schools, to businesses and community groups, and also getting the right waste into the right bin. They’ll be making Manchester greener, saving money and improving the whole environment for all.
Volunteer of the Year (dual award) - sponsored by Wythenshawe Community Housing Group
Highlighting the exceptional contribution made by volunteers – the backbone of Manchester – who give their time to improve the lives or surroundings of others. Out of the thousands who volunteer, let’s find the selfless person and the stand-out group who, time and again, have given their time for free.
Young Achiever of the Year (under-18) - sponsored by Rowlinsons
Young Mancunians are leading by example with their ambition for the future of our city. Nominate an under-18 whose passion and pride can inspire us all to aim higher, and raise our hopes for how great Manchester can be.
The work done by the person or group you are nominating must take place within the Manchester boundaries.
For further information and to make a nomination, visit: www.manchester.gov.uk/beproud
Deadline for nominations: Sunday 10 September 2017