THE organisation representing volunteer and community groups in the South Hams is celebrating its 20th anniversary with the launch of a new campaign.

South Hams Community & Voluntary Service’s Facing Forward project is aimed at strengthening voluntary and community organisations that support older and vulnerable people across the district.

Representatives of such organisations are warmly invited to what is billed as an ‘inspiring, interactive project launch event’ on Thursday, January 21, at the Watermark in Ivybridge.

Running from 10am to 3pm, but with refreshments from 9.30am, the free event will feature speakers, including Paul Courtney of the Institute of Fundraising, opportunities for networking, organisational ‘health checks,’ and funding searches. Lunch will be provided.

A highlight will be a session of interactive theatre by Playback Theatre Company, helping participants to explore issues as well as solutions to take forward in 2016.

South Hams CVS chief officer Jill Davies encouraged local representatives to attend the event.

She said: ‘This is a great opportunity for individuals and groups working to make a difference, from every parish in the South Hams, to come along and take part in sharing their ideas for helping their communities thrive, and to look at what help they may need to do this.’

A programme of facilitated meetings, support sessions, and subsidised training workshops will follow on through the year for staff and volunteers of voluntary and community organisations, on topics ranging from fund raising strategies and collaborative working, to dementia awareness, safeguarding and volunteer management.

South Hams CVS gratefully acknowledges the generous support of Big Lottery for this project.

The service has helped local voluntary organisations, community groups and charities to flourish since 1994, offering advice and information on topics including funding, volunteers, the law and governance.

Visit www.southhamscvs.org.uk and www.devonva.org for a wide range of information, training and events for voluntary and community groups in Devon.

To book your place at the Watermark event call 01803 862266 or email [email protected].