Building on 50 Years of Community Service

Our Roundtable Roots

HEART was born from the Helensburgh and District Roundtable, which had served our community for over 50 years. Roundtable is an international organisation for men and women under 45, dedicated to community service through social events and fundraising.

During the pandemic, our local Roundtable recognised an opportunity to expand our impact. We wanted to welcome members over 45 and ensure women could join on equal terms. Over a few years, we successfully onboarded several women into our group.

However, when we contacted Roundtable headquarters to formalise this inclusive approach, we were told women could not join Roundtable itself. Instead, they suggested we establish a separate Ladies Circle organisation. After reviewing our options, we decided the best path forward was to start afresh with our own charity, one that truly reflected our values of inclusivity and community service.

A New Chapter Begins

In 2023, we made the decision to form HEART (Helensburgh Events & Reinvestment Trust). On 23 April 2024, we officially registered as a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO), charity number SC053302.

The legacy from Roundtable continues strongly. They established beloved community events including the Helensburgh Real Ale Festival (which has evolved into our Beer & Gin Festival), the Santa Dash, the Fireworks display, and the annual Burns Supper. We're delighted to carry these traditions forward whilst creating new opportunities for our community.

Since our registration, we've distributed over £20,000 to more than 20 beneficiaries across Helensburgh and Lomond. We have a strong and active board of trustees, and our ambitious goal is to distribute £100,000 by 2030. With 2026 shaping up to feature our Beer & Gin Festival, the hopeful return of the Wine Festival, plus Fireworks and Santa Dash later in the year, we're well on our way.