THIS year has seen considerable change at Merkinch Enterprise, and the organisation had altogether had a very productive and successful year. That was the message from chief executive Colin Downie at the AGM on 26th September.
No-one could have failed to notice the move to No 14 Grant Street. The new premises which cost almost £30,000 to refurbish and re-equip, meant the organisation was under the one roof, except for the community training and childcare centres.
The organisation employs 13, five of them part-time. During the year four members of staff had moved on - three had been replaced and a fourth appointment was imminent.
Mr Downie reported on each of the elements in the charity’s operations.
The community training project, which is financed through the European Social Fund, continues to be popular.
Merkinch Enterprise funds the shortfall here as it does for the community newsletter which is otherwise dependent on the sponsors and various donations.
The childcare centre, Fliperz, was fast becoming self sufficient, though it did still rely on the parent organisation to some extent.
Mr Downie concluded by saying that altogether Merkinch Enterprise, through its successful commercial elements, provided financial support to these projects to a total of £17,000 and without this help these projects - which all directly benefit the community - would not be able to continue. During the year, although expenditure had been considerable, the financial situation was still very healthy.
In line with the constitution that requires one third of directors to stand down each year Ross MacGillivray and Madeline Grant retired, then were unanimously re-appointed. Kath Maclennan had also stood down as a director during the year due to other work commitments. Board members were thanked for all their hard work and support.
CALL in at Merkinch Enterprise’s office at 14 Grant Street and the smiling face you see at the reception desk is that of Helen Hamilton, our new administrative assistant.
She replaces Gillian Matheson who has gone to pursue a career in the catering industry.
Helen came from Stirling five years ago and now lives in Merkinch. She has just finished a three-year degree course in Business Administration at the Highlands and Islands University.