An under-threat “local institution” has crafted a recovery plan to revitalise its operations in a bid to secure its long-term sustainability.
Stamperland Community and Social Club, based in the heart of Clarkston, has been facing potential closure due to declining attendance and money pressures.
An emergency general meeting was held last month which laid bare the dire financial straits of the club. A subcommittee was then established and tasked with putting together a strategy.
Their efforts culminated in a comprehensive plan unveiled at its Annual General Meeting on April 25, which was met with broad support from the members.
"We're not just steadying the ship, we're navigating towards uncharted waters," said Andy Sproull, the club’s new president.
"Our plan involves a business-like approach to management including a detailed business plan and a dynamic marketing strategy. However, we're not out of the woods yet.
“The successful implementation of our recovery plan hinges on the continued support from our community.
“We need everyone to come forward, engage with our initiatives, and help us operationalize these strategies.
“Together, we can ensure the long-term sustainability and revitalization of our beloved club."
Notably, more than 150 people have already renewed their memberships, including several former members, which the club believes demonstrates “robust community backing” for the plan.
The strategy includes a series of enhancements to the club's facilities, marking the beginning of major transformative works intended to elevate the club’s appeal and utility.
The job now is to get the funds in to “deliver the goods.”
It is also seeking to broaden the spectrum of events hosted, from quizzes and markets to a richer variety of live music, with the aim of attracting a more diverse range of people to the club and solidifying it as an inclusive community hub.
After the proposals were laid out, in line with tradition, the entire executive committee resigned during the AGM, allowing fresh faces to take the helm.
Three of the five new committee members come from the proactive subcommittee, joining veteran social convenor, Margaret Lavelle, in driving the club forward with new energy and insights.
"The optimism within our walls is tangible, fuelled by innovative ideas and staunch support from our members,” added Andy, who has been a member for 25 to 30 years.
“Together, we're not just preserving our legacy, we're expanding it."
The club is now actively seeking community involvement to enrich its offerings.
A call is open for anyone who can contribute, be it through raffle prizes or entertainment for fundraisers, or even wishing to volunteer their trade for a few hours to help with renovations.
For more information or to offer support, contact the club at contact@stamperlandsc.co.uk.
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