Sanctuary of the Hopeful Sun

Over a century ago, Joseph Rowntree was a radical changemaker who responded to the pressing challenges of his time, not just with ideas, but with action. He built bold, practical prototypes of a better future - solutions that went on to create lasting impact in York, across the UK, and beyond. Today, that spirit lives on in a new generation of changemakers, visionary individuals and projects who, like Rowntree, are creating working examples of how life can be fairer, more sustainable, and regenerative. They aren’t waiting for change; they’re building it here and now.

This part of our Hope is Here festival programme celebrates and showcases these changemakers. It’s a space to shine a light on the people, projects and schemes that are reimagining how we live and work, offering not just inspiration, but tangible models for a better future.

Join organisations in the Sanctuary of the Hopeful Sun, Yor Space, Threads in the Ground, Civic Square and York Central Co owned (YoCo). Discover how we can all play a part in building the future today.