The upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Scottish Procurement Alliance (SPA) is set to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Scottish communities. Scheduled for September 24th in Livingston, West Lothian, the event will highlight the successes of the Community Benefit Fund (CBF), which has delivered over £2 million in grants and match funding since 2017. Attendees will gain invaluable insights from industry experts and public sector organizations on best practices and innovations in community development.
Celebrating Community Achievements
The SPA AGM will shine a spotlight on the transformative impact of community benefits across Scotland. Over the past seven years, the CBF has provided significant support to 102 community groups and charities, positively affecting the lives of nearly 28,000 people. The fund has generated over £5.1 million in social value, showcasing the power of community-led initiatives.
Lesley Anderson, Regional Director for SPA, emphasized the importance of investing in communities. She highlighted the impressive successes delivered through the CBF and the vital role of public sector bodies in supporting these initiatives. The AGM will feature presentations and workshops from experts in community development, offering attendees a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and processes that have led to these achievements.
The event will also provide a platform for sharing best practices and innovative approaches to community engagement. Attendees will hear directly from organizations that have successfully implemented community-led projects, gaining insights into their strategies and future ambitions. This exchange of knowledge and experience will be invaluable for those looking to replicate similar successes in their own communities.
Insights from Industry Experts
Joining SPA at the AGM will be experts from various organizations, including the Scottish Community Development Centre (SCDC), South Ayrshire Council, Hawthorn Housing Cooperative, and South Lanarkshire Council. These experts will lead workshops and presentations, offering practical advice and guidance on community development. Topics will range from community-led impact research to participatory budgeting, providing a comprehensive overview of the tools and techniques available to support community initiatives.
David Allan, Deputy Director from SCDC, expressed his enthusiasm for the event. He highlighted the importance of community engagement and the role of organizations like SCDC in supporting these efforts. The AGM will provide a unique opportunity for attendees to learn from the experiences of others and to explore new ways of working together to achieve common goals.
The involvement of industry experts underscores the collaborative nature of the event. By bringing together a diverse range of perspectives and expertise, the AGM aims to foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual support. This collaborative approach is essential for driving forward community development and ensuring that the benefits are felt by all.
Looking to the Future
As the SPA AGM approaches, there is a sense of anticipation and excitement about the future of community development in Scotland. The event will not only celebrate past achievements but also look ahead to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Attendees will have the chance to reflect on the progress made so far and to consider how they can build on this success in the years to come.
The AGM will also provide a platform for discussing the future direction of the CBF and other community benefit initiatives. Attendees will hear about the latest developments and plans for expanding the reach and impact of these programs. This forward-looking approach is crucial for ensuring that community development remains a priority and that the benefits continue to be felt by those who need them most.
The SPA AGM promises to be a must-attend event for anyone involved in community development. With a packed agenda of presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities, it offers a unique chance to learn, share, and celebrate the achievements of Scottish communities. As the event draws closer, the excitement and anticipation continue to build, setting the stage for a truly memorable and impactful gathering.
