Perth and Kinross Duke of Edinburgh Award Association has received a £5000 donation.
The charity, based at Megginch Castle in Errol, was set up over 30 years ago to help ensure all young people from 12 to 25 are able to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
The trustees identified that young people with additional support needs faced barriers to engagement with the programme and soon got to work making the award as accessible as possible across Perth and Kinross.
The organisation carries out a range of activities, from canoeing to climbing, gardening to yoga, engaging young people in a variety of new sports and experiences.
In addition to the activities, the association also runs holistic support sessions and employability programmes that aim to help build confidence and prepare attendees for their future in the world of work.
The money will be used to buy a new minibus for transporting young people to take part in the various activities the group provides.
The charity received the £5000 donation through Persimmon’s Community Champions initiative, which supports charities and good causes in the areas the company operates in.
The cheque was presented at Megginch Castle estate last week. Robin Illsley, chair of Perth and Kinross Duke of Edinburgh Association, said: “A huge thank you to Persimmon for the support they are giving us.
“We will now be able to reach out to greater numbers of young people and provide them with the nurture, encouragement and experiences that will build their confidence, resilience and hopes for the future.”
John Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North, said: “I was delighted to learn that Persimmon had made such a significant contribution to a truly worthwhile cause.
“We saw throughout the pandemic just how beneficial outdoor activities can be to both the physical and mental health of us all.
“I am therefore pleased that, with Persimmon’s support, more young people will be able to reap the benefits of the glorious Perthshire countryside that we are fortunate enough to have on our doorstep.”
