A Community Celebration: The Kinglassie Old Folks Treat
The Kinglassie Old Folks Treat was established to address social isolation among the village's elderly population and maintain community connections. They received a multi-year award from the Kinglassie Wind Farm Community Fund.
Multi year awards
Multi-year awards provide financial stability for community groups of all sizes, allowing them to focus less on constant fundraising and more on their core mission. This sustained funding enables organisations to strengthen community engagement, increase program participation, and develop strategic long-term plans. As a result, communities receive greater benefits from these projects, as groups can dedicate their voluntary efforts toward meaningful impact rather than ongoing financial survival. The Kinglassie Old Folks Treat group is a great example of how multi-year awards can truly benefit the community.
Why the group was established
The Kinglassie Old Folks Treat was established to address social isolation among the village's elderly population and maintain community connections that had historically been fostered through the Kinglassie Action Group. The transition to a constituted association in 2022 ensured the continuation of this community service during a period when such social connections became increasingly important, particularly for care home residents who had experienced significant disruption due to facility changes. The project aimed to enhance social engagement, foster stronger community bonds, and promote positive mental health and wellbeing for older residents in a village of just under 2,000 people.
The Project
Following the groups establishment, they planned to continue with the delivery of the annual dinner, which had been held every year for the past eleven years, for residents over 66 years of age. Originally conceived as a Christmas event, logistical challenges such as inclement weather led to it becoming a Spring event, thereby ensuring sustained attendance and enjoyment.
Community Engagement and Inclusivity
The group’s approach to inclusivity targeted all village residents aged 66 years and above, with outreach efforts spanning personalised invitations, community noticeboards, and social media platforms. Close collaboration with the local Care Home ensured appropriate accommodation for residents and their carers,.
Project Overview and Funding
To support the ongoing Old Folks Treat, the group applied to the Kinglassie Wind Farm Community Fund for a multi-year award over three years for £1,500 per year, which would enable the delivery of this event at Mitchell Hall in March 2024, 2025 and 2026.
The fund’s decision making panel – made up of local residents who know the community well - agreed to the application. This funding has supported an enhanced programme and ensured financial sustainability for future events.
Event Delivery and Success
The 2024 celebration achieved record attendance, welcoming 115 invited guests. The evening's programme showcased an expanded menu, professional entertainment from a Dundee-based singer, and a popular raffle with over 70 prizes on offer.
Local Partnership Development
Local business engagement supported the delivery for the event, providing discounted services and donations. Various organisations contributed through pre-event fundraising initiatives, making this a truly community-led event.
Impact and Outcomes
The project's alignment with the Kinglassie Wind Farm Community Fund objectives was evident in its contribution to community vibrancy, promotion of social engagement, and enhancement of local residents' quality of life. Particularly significant was timing, providing important community connection following recent disruptions at the local care home.
Future Sustainability and Conclusion
Through careful planning and broad community collaboration, the Kinglassie Old Folks Treat Association successfully maintained the event's position as a cornerstone of village life. The group’s proven capacity for sustainable project delivery and continuous improvement, supported by the three-year funding commitment, suggested a promising outlook for this community tradition that continues to reduce social isolation and promote mental well-being among Kinglassie's residents.
Final thoughts
Despite facing increased costs of approximately £2,600, the Association maintained fiscal responsibility while improving the event's quality. The group’s careful financial management resulted in a surplus for future events, demonstrating sustainable project delivery. It also provides an evidenced-based example of how community benefit and multi-year awards can reduce the financial burdens placed upon volunteers, freeing up their time to focus on the project and overall quality of delivery.