Funding supports vital Community Shop coordinator role
With the support of a £6,728 grant from The Glenkens & District Trust (GDT), Moniaive Initiative has maintained a vital community post at The Hive, a community shop and hub.
The funding supported the Volunteer and Retail Coordinator position at this community-owned social enterprise. Julian Waddell, who has held the role since November 2022, coordinates multiple volunteer teams that keep the hub's services running.
Deborah Iden, Project Co-ordinator said:
Julian's open and chatty disposition makes him popular with both volunteers and customers. His easy-going nature means that he quickly puts new volunteers at ease and can facilitate their work in a supportive way.
The Hive operates through dedicated volunteer teams across several areas, and Julian’s role is key to supporting this activity. The volunteer teams are responsible for everything from managing weekly window displays, to rotating stock and working with other charity shops and recycling initiatives. Library volunteers have kept services going throughout building renovations and recently expanding their book collection with new shelving. The gallery team organises at least four joint exhibitions annually, with additional solo shows and popular launch events.
A recent expansion includes the Hive Pop-up, selling pre-loved furniture and household goods from a separate unit in the village. This team collaborates with the Repair Café volunteers to process electrical items for repair and resale, strengthening the local circular economy.
The Hive has integrated itself into community events, participating in the Moniaive Gala in July and hosting a Fashion Show in September. The space supports local enterprise through its Artisan Crafters program, which includes both established and start-up businesses. Weekly Digital Buddies sessions have evolved into broader health and wellbeing drop-ins, complemented by regular business coaching through the SOSE Pathways Pilot Project.
The Hive attracts a variety of volunteers, including its youngest regular member, age 16, who manages The Hive’s social media. This diversity of participation has helped The Hive maintain steady footfall and expand its community impact since opening.
With such a diverse range of activities, the Hive creates a thriving space that supports the local community and GDT was pleased to support the hub’s role in advancing sustainable community development and encouraging participation in education, arts, culture, and leisure activities for all residents of Moniaive and Glencairn.