THE VILLAGE of Sandbank is gearing up to celebrate the power of community spirit next weekend with a special Volunteer Fair at
Sandbank Village Hall.
The free event, on Saturday, September 20, will run from 10am until noon and is being organised by Sandbank Community Development Trust, Scenic Sandbank and Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface (TSI).
The fair will showcase the huge variety of ways locals can get involved and volunteer for their community, from giving just an hour now and again to taking on a more regular role, there’s something for everyone.
Visitors can browse stalls, chat directly to groups, and discover how their skills – big or small – could make a difference. Children will be kept entertained with arts and crafts while adults enjoy light refreshments and one-to-one conversations with organisations.
A wide mix of local groups will be represented, including Sandbank Community Garden, Oakbank Community Inn, Holy Loch Sailing Club, Interloch Community Transport, Sandbank Parent and Toddler Group, Scouts and Cubs, Sandbank Senior Citizens’ Club, Upper Cowal Bowling Club, Cowal University of the Third Age and Cowal Open Studios.
Each stall will outline the opportunities available, from hands-on help to behind-the- scenes support, giving residents the chance to find the perfect volunteering role to match their interests and availability.
Sue McKillop of Scenic Sandbank and Oakbank Community Inn said, “Our projects have come so far – and offer our village so much – and Volunteers are at the heart of that. We do need more people willing to give a hand here and there, from short term contributions through to joining our boards. There’s something for everyone – and the Fair will be the perfect chance for the community to find out more.”
Janis Marshall Reilly, Third Sector Support Advisor for Argyll and Bute Third Sector Interface added:
“Volunteering is at the heart of community life in Argyll and Bute and the TSI is delighted to support this event as part of our wider role in connecting people and organisations across the region. Sandbank Volunteer Fair will be a chance to see just how many opportunities exist on the doorstep of residents from the top of the Holy Loch, through Sandhaven, right along the shoreline – and across the full village. Everyone is welcome. Bring your curiosity, your skills, your desire to learn – and have a chat about how you could make a difference to Sandbank.”
Parking and bus stops available nearby Sandbank Village Hall. The venue is wheelchair and buggy accessible. Everyone, of all ages, welcome. For further
information, please contact John Parker at j.parker@ academylm.co.uk, or visit argylltsi.org/events
For wider volunteering support across Argyll and Bute, visit www.argylltsi.org/ volunteering
