Cowley Road Carnival is Oxford’s largest community event.

Oxford’s artistic flair and diversity is displayed so vividly and to so many people, with the carnival attracting more than 22,000 visitors from Oxford and beyond.

Last year, 688 children and adults took part in the procession. Dancers, musicians and artists of all kinds brought the area to life; charities, community organisations and crafts people promoted their great work; and traders offered up a variety of food, drink, clothing, crafts and more.

Josh Barrie, of organising group Cowley Road Works, said: “Oxford’s economy truly benefits from the carnival, allowing our community to prosper through participation and showcase.

“Plans for 2013 are taking great shape. The event will be more inclusive than ever, involving as many community organisations, schools and businesses as possible.

“Everyone has something to offer and we plan to engage people from every generation and background, offering skills development, employment and volunteering opportunities. “To do this, Cowley Road Carnival needs to raise £90,000 to pay for creative production and artistic direction, as well as the necessities such as insurance, staging, road closure and licensing.

“For the carnival to go ahead these costs are covered by stalls fees, donations, business sponsorship and grants, and each year it is imperative that enough money is raised well in advance.”

Josh added: “The carnival needs help to raise this money. Whether you are a business, a community group or simply a citizen of Oxford with an idea, Cowley Road Works would like to hear from you.

“There are many ways to get involved; become a sponsor and benefit from the carnival’s wide reach and popular appeal, organise a fundraising event, make a donation, or volunteer your skills.”

Cowley Road Works is a registered charity led by volunteer trustees, and it already has some exciting fundraisers planned, including a gig on Cowley Road, a film night at The Ultimate Picture Palace, a Zumba night and a restaurant scheme.

To find out more or make a donation email info@cowleyroadworks.org or write to c/o Pegasus Theatre, Magdalen Road, Oxford, OX4 1RE. Alternatively, visit www.cowleyroadcarnival.co.uk or follow @CowleyCarnival on Twitter or like Cowley Road Carnival on Facebook.

If you want to contribute to this column contact Sarah Beer at Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action (OCVA) by email at voluntaryvoice@ocva.org.uk