Provincial Grand Lodge of Fife and Kinross
Supports Youth 1st Awards
The Provincial Grand Lodge of Fife and Kinross was delighted to support the Youth 1st Awards, held on Thursday, 17 September, celebrating the achievements and contributions of young people and the youth organisations, leaders and volunteers who support them across Fife and Kinross.
The guest speaker for the evening was Mike McAdams, Substitute Provincial Grand Master (SPGM) of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Fife and Kinross, who spoke about the importance of recognising young people's achievements and supporting the organisations and volunteers who help them develop and thrive.
Also recognised during the evening was the work of David McNeil, representing the Grand Lodge of Scotland's work with the National Literacy Trust. David has been involved in developing and promoting initiatives designed to encourage literacy and reading among young people, helping to provide opportunities that can improve confidence, communication and educational development.
A key part of this work has been the support and partnership provided by Youth 1st, whose experience and connections within the youth sector have helped make these initiatives accessible to youth organisations and the young people they support.
The collaboration demonstrates what can be achieved when charitable organisations, youth organisations and community groups work together. By combining resources, experience and enthusiasm, the partnership has helped encourage young people to engage with reading and literacy in ways that are relevant, accessible and enjoyable.
The awards provided an opportunity to celebrate the dedication, commitment and enthusiasm of young people, while also recognising the significant contribution made by youth workers and volunteers who give their time to provide opportunities, guidance and support.
Youth 1st> plays an important role in supporting youth organisations and the wider youth sector. Its work helps youth groups and their volunteers develop their skills, access support and resources, and create positive, safe and inclusive environments where young people can participate, build confidence, develop new skills and have their voices heard.
Speaking at the awards, Mike McAdams said:
“It is a real privilege to be here this evening and to see first-hand the fantastic work being carried out by young people and the organisations that support them. These awards are an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and recognise the dedication of the volunteers and leaders who make such a difference in our communities.”
The Provincial Grand Lodge of Fife and Kinross was proud to sponsor the event as part of its ongoing commitment to charity, community involvement and supporting local organisations.
Freemasonry has a long tradition of supporting communities and charitable causes. Across Fife and Kinross, Freemasons and Lodges contribute through fundraising, charitable donations, volunteering and practical assistance to organisations and individuals in need.
For Freemasons themselves, membership also provides opportunities to build lasting friendships, develop confidence and leadership skills, support worthwhile causes and become more actively involved in their local communities.
The work being undertaken with Youth 1st and the National Literacy Trust is another example of how partnerships can create meaningful opportunities for young people. Literacy is an important foundation for education, employment and everyday life, and initiatives that encourage young people to read and develop their communication skills can have benefits well beyond the classroom.
The Provincial Grand Lodge recognises the importance of investing in young people and supporting the organisations that help them reach their potential. Sponsoring the Youth 1st Awards reflects the shared values of service, friendship, personal development and community involvement.
Mike McAdams and the Provincial Grand Lodge of Fife and Kinross would like to congratulate all the young people, nominees, award winners, youth organisations and volunteers recognised during the evening.
They also extend their thanks to Youth 1st, David McNeil, and everyone involved in the literacy work for their continued commitment to creating positive opportunities for young people across Fife and Kinross.
Pictured at the Youth 1st Awards are Mike McAdams, Substitute Provincial Grand Master of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Fife and Kinross; David McNeil, representing the Grand Lodge of Scotland and its work with the National Literacy Trust; and Colin Davie, Chair of Autism Rocks Fife, Past Substitute Provincial Grand Master.
