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Charity wins £75k prize in international award

Oprah FlashWest Midlands
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The African Caribbean Community Initiative charity, run by Alicia Spence, has been providing support to people affected by mental health issues for nearly 40 years

A mental health charity has secured more than £75,000 after becoming the first in the UK to be recognised by judges of an international humanitarian award.

The African Caribbean Community Initiative (Acci) was named among the top three organisations in this year's Opus Prize, which honours grassroots groups making a lasting impact in their communities.

Founded in Wolverhampton nearly 40 years ago, Acci was commended for providing culturally appropriate mental health support.

The award was presented at a ceremony hosted by Xavier University of Louisiana in the United States.

"We are in a climate where often times we get caught up in the negative energies around us," said Alicia Spence, CEO of Acci.

"But this event shifted the focus to the positive opportunities that the occasion provided to network and establish meaningful relationships in the global community and to appreciate the invaluable work being done by so many unsung heroes."

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The Opus Prize shines a light on unsung heroes across the world working to support their communities

Acci shared the runner-up award of $100,000 (£75,121) with Micah Ecumenical Ministries, a coalition of churches in Virginia.

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The charity has been celebrated for providing culturally appropriate mental health support in and around Wolverhampton

The $1m (£751,210) top prize went to the Religious Sisters of the Holy Spirit, a Zambian organisation.

Candeece Harvey, Acci's health and wellbeing practitioner added: "Witnessing the incredible work happening globally has sparked new ideas, new approaches, and fresh ways we can continue to uplift and support our members and the wider community here in Wolverhampton."

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