I Love Manchester because...
Manchester is on a mission to become happier, healthier and wealthier.
Whether you are eight or 80, Manchester has something on offer to help you feel strong, be strong and cope with challenges.
Elderly people at the Minehead Resource Centre are stretching themselves in a 'Green Gym' in their garden - read more.
Youngsters in Fallowfield are starring in their own documentary about contemporary family life in modern-day Manchester - read more.
And all over the city, families, residents and the caring public are coming together for our annual 100 Days campaign for a green, clean environment and to boost recycling.
The wellbeing projects have been sparked by work in schools to help children feel happier and more confident about their potential and their lifestyles. Now similar work is being planned for adults facing increasing isolation, maybe through retirement or bereavement, and for parents living with toddlers and teenagers. There's also a need to improve opportunities for young people leaving education, through increasing the number of guaranteed apprenticeships in the city.
Councillor Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: "Life is never going to be perfect, but if we can give people skills to deal with the challenges of everyday life, then it's a big step along the way.
"If people feel strong, then they can be strong, and that helps them cope with challenges.
"Public agencies like the Council can't and shouldn't run people's lives and we aren't going to try, but we can put in place processes for individuals to help themselves."
There is solid research suggesting that helping people feel better about themselves and to be optimistic and resilient can have a beneficial impact on real outcomes such as employment, health, wealth, education and skills.
The themes are being explored at a family- friendly fun day organised by the Manchester Partnership, 2015 Manchester's Journey to be held on Saturday March 15 at Manchester Central.
Among the attractions of entertainers, musicians and athletes, photographer Ganiyu Pierre Gasper is exhibiting his photographs, entitled 'What's So Special About Manchester?'
The Ardwick-born photographer has taken pictures of people from all walks of life holding signs displaying their inner thoughts on Manchester. Said Ganiyu: "It was really inspirational learning more about the people who share this city."
For more information visit http://www.manchesterpartnership.org.uk/, email: manchesterpartnership@manchester.gov.uk, or telephone Jenny on 0161 234 3541.