Significant Contribution Made by the Glenkens and District Community Fund

That the Parliament recognises the significant contribution made by the Glenkens and District Community Fund in supporting volunteers, community groups, local organisations and individuals across the Glenkens and surrounding district; notes that the fund, which was established in 2018 and is supported by community benefit funding from the Blackcraig and Windy Rig wind farms, has distributed more than £1.5 million in grants, leveraging a further £3.25 million of additional investment into the region; further notes the wide range of projects and strategic research commissions supported through this funding, from science workshops for school pupils and repairs to village halls to support for local producers and training grants enabling residents to gain work-related qualifications and funding of anchor organisations to support community development; acknowledges the positive testimony from groups such as New Galloway Community Enterprises and D&G Woodlands, which highlight the fund’s role in enabling social, economic and environmental innovation; recognises the dedication of the Glenkens and District Trust Board, which comprises local volunteer residents with the majority appointed by their respective Community Councils, in making grant decisions grounded in the Community Action Plans, and the support provided by Foundation Scotland in administering the fund, and welcomes the celebration event which took place in Dalry Town Hall to showcase the achievements of the volunteers, organisations and community leaders whose efforts have enriched the Glenkens and strengthened the region’s resilience and community spirit.