The Journey So Far.

Connect Alloa, was born out of a vision I had had for years: – to create a community where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Having a passion for youth work and a degree in community development, envisioned a space where people could connect, share, and grow together. What makes this even more important is that after community research, the people of Alloa said that they also wanted to create more youth and young adult provision and reduce social isolation and loneliness.

There is a need to create and build connections within any community. It's not just about the physical place; it's about building bridges between our vast community. Connect Alloa strives to create spaces and events that encourage social interaction, which in turn, have forged bonds that extend beyond the project itself.

In any community project, challenges are inevitable. I can certainly reflect on the hurdles faced by Connect Alloa, ranging from logistical issues to navigating diverse community needs. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and adapt though, and that’s what we have done. Connects team can evolve in response to challenges, sometimes right away, other times upon reflection but as a team we communicate what’s best for our young people, and therefore the project.

Connect Alloa thrives on collaboration, involving local businesses, community leaders, and residents. I often say it has to be community over competition and one of our new Trustees refers to what we are, like that old film ‘Field of Dreams’ by saying ‘If you build it, they will come’. And I guess it’s true, we have built it and young people continue to come through the door.

One unique aspect of Connect Alloa is its commitment to empowering the community. Young people take the lead wherever possible, organising events, and driving positive change. We are even in the early stages of creating a Youth Board that will hopefully speak directly to the Trustees so they know it is something we take seriously, and don’t just say we do to tick a box.

Connect Alloa will continue to evolve and grow, guided by the ever-changing needs of its community. It is more than a project; as one young person said ‘Connect isn’t a place – it’s the people’. Finally, we know that we don’t just make an impact on physical spaces; we make a positive impact on the lives of those who we directly support, and the parents and guardians too.

Stay tuned for more updates as Connect Alloa continues to weave its story of community, connection, and collaboration.