Stirling-based social enterprise, Ceangail CIC, is making a significant impact on the local community through its diverse volunteer initiatives. Since its establishment in 2012, Ceangail has focused on promoting social impact and personal development while also providing opportunities for young people through its vocational training programmes.
Ceangail’s mission is to inspire young people to engage in tourism through vocational training. The organisation has been instrumental in encouraging volunteers from central Scotland to participate in various community projects. These projects include the Skills Connect vocational training programmes, which range from 3-day training sessions to informative workshops on improving mental health and well-being.
One of Ceangail’s longest-running projects combines its Skills Connect vocational training with the Stirling Highland Games, an annual event held at Stirling Sports Village. This project has engaged over 300 volunteers and supported 170 young people since its inception in 2014. Through this project, volunteers have gained valuable employability skills and practical experience in event planning, digital media, and heritage tour guiding.
Longtime volunteer and committee member, Una McLachlan, shares her experience with Ceangail: “Volunteering with Ceangail CIC has allowed me to connect with the Stirling community and the other 50-odd volunteers that support the Stirling Highland Games. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of running events locally and feel more empowered to make a difference.”
Ceangail’s focus on engaging young people in meaningful activities has had a significant impact on their personal and professional growth. Through structured vocational training programmes, young people aged 16+ are given opportunities to develop skills, build confidence, and gain practical experience in the tourism sector. These programmes cover a wide range of skills, including event planning, digital media, and heritage tour guiding, which help in developing skills such as leadership, organizing, and teamwork.
A local high school teacher shared her experience of working with Ceangail and their students: “All of our young people that Ceangail has worked with have enjoyed their programme. The educators listen to them, support them, challenge them, and give them opportunities they potentially would not get. It’s great to work with you again.”
Ceangail is committed to creating a sustainable social impact in the community by developing initiatives that generate revenue and reinvesting profits into their community work. The organisation has been in contact with the local authority since 2016 to improve the land where it hosts the annual Stirling Highland Games event. If this vision becomes a reality, Ceangail will be able to host more volunteer programmes, providing greater opportunities for Stirling-based residents to get involved. Their event delivery also supports the local economic development strategy and fosters a sense of belonging and community spirit.
Looking ahead, Ceangail is determined to continue its mission of encouraging more people to volunteer. The organisation plans to deliver three events each year, providing up to 150 volunteers with opportunities for personal development, friendships, and socializing.
Matt McGrandles, Executive Director at Ceangail CIC, shares his excitement about the organisation’s future: “The Ceangail Board are excited about the possibilities of the social enterprise’s future. The potential to have an even greater impact on supporting young people, volunteering, and the local economy is encouraging. However, becoming sustainable is a must for us. Our vision, which would bring an area of Stirling back to life, will create jobs, boost the local economy, and offer young people real practical learning experiences. This will create a network of empowered individuals and a thriving community, all connected through the spirit of volunteering.”
For more information about Ceangail CIC and how to volunteer, visit www.ceangail.org or contact office@ceangail.org.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.