Malcolm Brett is a Trustee of Worthing Community Chest and he also Chairs our Appraisal Panel twice a year. Malcolm was first introduced to the Community Chest when he applied for funding in 2010. Here Malcolm tells you about his Trustee journey.
“As secretary of a local voluntary group that receives no direct funding I am always on the lookout for sources of grants.
In 2010 I came across the Worthing Voluntary Action newsletter which gave the Worthing Community Chest as grant giver, so not to be outdone I applied, the process was very simple and the administrator offered so much support.
We were fortunate to be awarded £1000 it was a sum that was far more then we could raise in a short term and meant we were able to purchase equipment that we badly needed.
Malcolm presents a cheque underwater!
Following the award of the grant I was asked to sit on the appraisal panel that sits to evaluate the applications from other groups, this was an amazing experience and gave me the opportunity to see the variety of groups in the Worthing area and the fantastic work that they do and has been very humbling at times.
The Community Chest held its Annual General Meeting in the autumn of 2011 and all groups that receive grants are invited to attend, at that meeting the Chairman asked for more people to serve on the Chest’s Board. Having been volunteering since the early 1960’s and held many senior positions with groups and community centres I felt that I may be able to offer some support and knowledge.
Malcolm with Sustainable Sussex
Since that time the Community Chest has gone through many changes all of which have proved positive especially with regard to the groups that apply for grants, one major improvement over the time is that the grant money available to applicants has risen to £1500, an amount that can really make a difference to many of them.
The journey from applicant to a trustee has been a very rewarding and inspiring experience and I would urge anyone who feels they can offer something to apply.”
If Malcolm’s story has inspired you to want to become a Worthing Community Chest Trustee take a look at our volunteer information or call Catherine on 01903 221080.