South Lanarkshire charities among the winners at Third Sector Awards in Blantyre

Charities and volunteers from South Lanarkshire were honoured at the Third Sector Awards in Blantyre, showcasing their exceptional contributions to the community. Hosted by Voluntary Action South Lanarkshire (VASLan) at The Parkville Hotel, the event recognised individuals and groups who have made a significant impact through their charitable work. From addressing social isolation to developing green spaces, the awards highlighted the transformative efforts of these organisations in South Lanarkshire.

The ceremony featured touching speeches and the presentation of awards across various categories, such as Volunteer of the Year, Grassroots Organisation of the Year, and Young Person Achievement Award. One of the standout winners was LEAP, a charity based in Cambuslang. Gilbert “Gilly” Feron, chairperson at LEAP, was honoured with the Community Champion Award for his three-decade-long dedication to supporting older individuals and leading LEAP to assist thousands of people annually. LEAP also secured the Grassroots Organisation Award for their impactful work in the community.

Another noteworthy recipient was Agape Wellbeing, which received the Partnership & Collaboration Award for their collaborative mental health and wellbeing initiatives in East Kilbride, in partnership with The Village Centre. Drew McKinney, CEO at Agape Wellbeing, expressed his delight at the recognition, emphasising the importance of raising awareness about the valuable work being done within local communities. Lauren McKechnie, chairperson at VASLan, highlighted the significance of the Third Sector Awards in celebrating the dedication and positive influence of charities and individuals in South Lanarkshire.

Events like the Third Sector Awards are vital for acknowledging the indispensable efforts of the third sector in enhancing the well-being of local residents and communities. Recognising these achievements not only honours the hard work of volunteers and organisations but also reinforces the essential role of charities in creating positive change at a local and national level. It is a testament to the unwavering commitment and impact of those who selflessly strive to uplift and support others.

In conclusion, the Third Sector Awards in Blantyre shone a spotlight on the selfless dedication and outstanding contributions of charities and volunteers in South Lanarkshire. The event serves as a reminder of the invaluable work being done to improve the lives of individuals and communities, underscoring the essential role of the third sector in driving positive change. Such recognition not only honours the efforts of those involved but also inspires others to continue making a difference in their communities.