Here We Are project is congratulated by MSP
Cairndow-based project Here We Are has been congratulated by Highlands and Island MSP Maree Todd following a £90,200 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Here We Are puts Cairndow’s social history under the microscope whilst exploring self-sustaining approaches for Cairndow’s future.
It involves everything from exhibitions within the community to renewable energy projects. The initiative aims to demonstrate how a rural community makes its way in the modern world.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund invests in Scotland’s diverse heritage and has supported more than 4,200 projects since 1994. These include museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions.
Project director of Here We Are Christina Noble said: ‘We are grateful to the
Heritage Lottery Fund for such a generous grant. It is public acknowledgment for the remarkable collection of information that Cairndow’s people have created over the years.
‘Our achievement is due to our staff and our committee and we would not have got here without the support and enthusiasm of many organisations and individuals.’
‘Without the imagination and diligent work of Alice Beattie, now 86, combined with her daughter Dot Chalmer’s enthusiasm for learning new skills, there would not be a collection of Cairndow’s social history.’
The grant will cover the creation of a digital catalogue of Here We Are itself from 1998 to now as an established community development organisation with a track record – and a future.
The funding will also be used to connect the project to other communities. Here We Are is keen to work with historical societies in Strachur, Inveraray and Arrochar along with primary and high schools.
Ms Todd MSP said: ‘I am delighted to see a number of well-deserved projects in the Highlands and Islands receive funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
‘It’s been inspiring learning about the work of Here We Are and the values at its core.
‘The project encourages rural communities to come together and work collaboratively to discover and preserve their heritage whilst also planning ahead.
‘The National Lottery Heritage Fund is now accepting applications for the next round of funding. I would urge anyone in the Highlands and Islands who is involved in any type of heritage project to consider applying for a grant.’