On 27th November, the Voluntary and Community Sector Assembly (VCSA) hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Shrewsbury Town Football Club. This event brought together voluntary, community, and social enterprise organisations from across Shropshire to celebrate achievements, share ideas, and shape the future of the sector.
The AGM featured an agenda designed to inspire collaboration and practical action. Attendees participated in:
- Forums of Interest Spotlight - Updates from key forums and opportunities to create new ones, ensuring diverse voices influence local priorities.
- Interactive Strategy Workshop - Co-designing an action plan to deliver shared goals, tackling issues that matter to the sector.
- Crowdfunding Showcase - Inspiring stories like Feed the Birds, highlighting how community projects can thrive through innovative funding.
- Volunteering Workshop - Celebrating volunteers and exploring best practices for support and engagement. See the presentation here.
- Address from Councillor Alex Wagner - The portfolio holder for Communities set out his support for the sector and recognition of the importance of partnership working between VCSE and the Council.
Networking opportunities and organisational stands added to the vibrant atmosphere, fostering connections that will strengthen the sector moving forward. You can see the main presentation here.
The second draft of the Shropshire Accord was revealed, building on feedback received from over the past year. The Accord seeks to enhance collaboration between public sector bodies and VCS groups.
The AGM was not only about planning for the future but also celebrating the incredible work of VCSA members. Special thanks were extended to all presenters, organisers, and attendees for making the event a success.