Tracy Lowe grew up on Wallace Close in Oldbury and has dedicated over 30 years to supporting young people in her local area.
Back in August 1994, at just 20 years old, Tracy partnered with the local youth service to launch the Wallace Youth Project. She helped secure a community room beneath Darley House, a towering 17-story block of flats and with the support of local authorities, councillors, and parents, the space was transformed into a haven for young people.
Tracy took evening classes to earn a Level 3 qualification in Youth and Community Work, learning how to write policies, secure funding, and organise training. After two years of support, the team transitioned to running the youth club independently—and have been thriving ever since.
A Legacy of Impact
Over the past 30 years, Wallace Youth Project has become a cornerstone of the community, nurturing two generations of young people, offering them opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive. Some of their achievements include:
- Youth Football Team: “Wallace United” participated in tournaments and played at local sports centres.
- Creative Projects: Collaborating with the Arts Council, crafted a mural on railway sleepers that became football goalposts.
- Annual Residential Trips: From camping to canal boat weekends, these experiences have enriched countless lives.
- Exciting Day Trips: From Drayton Manor to Alton Towers, they have opened doors to adventure and exploration.
- Family Coach Outings: Strengthening bonds between parents and children on fun-filled trips.
They also maintain a traditional youth club setup with snooker tables, darts, and outdoor games, alongside a homework club for academic support.
Beyond Wallace Youth Project
Tracy has also dedicated her time to the Grace Mary to Lion Farm Big Local Project, a 10-year initiative funded by £1 million from the National Lottery to improve the neighbourhood. As chairperson, she helped organise impactful events, from Christmas dinner hampers to community litter picks. In 2018, Tracy founded Big Local Little Voices, a youth forum empowering young representatives to drive positive change.
This group has:
- Created a youth business enterprise for fundraising.
- Designed and installed benches to combat loneliness.
- Received recognition from the Police Crime Commissioner for their community contributions.
A Vision for the Future
Tracey said: “Looking ahead, we’re excited about transforming a neglected wasteland into a community garden, offering a shared space for residents to connect and foster unity.
“Despite the challenges, my passion for this work has never wavered. Seeing young people grow into confident adults fills me with pride. Wallace Youth Project isn’t just a youth club—it’s a testament to what a community can achieve when united by purpose and dedication.
“This year, as we celebrate our 30th anniversary, I’m deeply honoured to receive an MBE, a recognition that belongs not just to me but to everyone who has supported Wallace Youth Project over the years. Together, we’ve proven that with resilience, love, and teamwork, anything is possible.”
