Why it matters: Suffolk Mind's inclusion as one of three Community Chest spaces recognises the charity's growing impact, having supported more than 33,000 people in the last year alone as demand for mental health services continues to rise.
The big picture: Ipswich is getting its own version of the world's most popular board game 19 years after first "passing GO". The new edition will feature over 30 local landmarks and favourites, replacing classic London properties like Mayfair and Park Lane.
Suffolk Mind will star on its very own Community Chest space when Monopoly: Ipswich Edition launches later this year.
What they're saying: "A huge congratulations to Suffolk Mind. We are delighted to announce them onto the board," said Ben Ladd Gibbon, UK Custom Games Partnership Manager at Winning Moves UK, who are producing the game under licence from Hasbro.
"The chance to feature on the upcoming Monopoly: Ipswich Edition was an opportunity we couldn't turn down. We're really excited to be involved," said Jon Neal.
"Our mission is to make Suffolk the best place in the world for talking about and taking care of mental health. We know that playing board games with loved ones is a great way to meet our emotional needs for Community and Achievement, so we look forward to seeing people come together over a game or two."
The independent charity is on a mission to make Suffolk "the best place in the world for talking about and taking care of mental health". It has won numerous awards, including two East Suffolk Awards, while chief executive Jon Neal was named Suffolk's Director of the Year last year.
The details: Earlier this year, Winning Moves UK invited the public to suggest landmarks for the board. Portman Road, the Waterfront and Christchurch Park were among the popular suggestions from residents.
The board will be themed around heritage, shopping, sport, tourism, entertainment, leisure and education. The four traditional train stations will be replaced with a travel theme.
Winning Moves UK creates Monopoly editions for destinations worldwide, including Palm Beach, Dubai and The Hamptons.
The bottom line: Suffolk Mind's inclusion on the new Ipswich Monopoly board provides valuable awareness for mental health services while celebrating local organisations that make a difference in the community. More announcements to follow.
