Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO) has announced that it awarded a record £2.7 million in grants during the last financial year, supporting nearly 200 projects across the county.

The figure was confirmed at PAVO’s Annual General Meeting, held on Friday, November 28, where chief executive Clair Swales outlined the organisation’s impact over the past year.

A significant share of the funding came from the UK Government’s Social Prosperity Fund (SPF), which Powys County Council appointed PAVO to manage. The SPF backed improvements to 55 community buildings and supported initiatives aimed at boosting numeracy, digital inclusion and green travel.

Ms Swales said the investment had “strengthened Powys communities, ensuring they continue to thrive”.

She also highlighted PAVO’s wider role as a “catalyst for voluntary action” and a central source of support for the county’s third sector. This includes work with trustees and volunteers, running networks and forums, and delivering community connector and befriending services.

PAVO’s Head of Internal Services, Angela Owen, presented the charity’s financial statements and annual trustee report. She said the documents showed how PAVO’s resources were used to “help organisations and improve people's lives across Powys”.

The AGM also marked a change in leadership. Outgoing Chair of Trustees Jamie Burt, who led the meeting, was thanked for his five years of service. Ms Swales praised his “invaluable” contribution, who noting that his tenure included navigating the pandemic, appointing a new chief executive and overseeing record levels of funding distribution.

Mr Burt also thanked retiring trustee Peter Swanson for his long service and acknowledged the support of Vice Chair Jennifer Owen Adams.

Following the meeting, Gary Mitchell was confirmed as PAVO’s new Chair of Trustees. Mr Burt will remain involved, taking up the role of Vice Chair, while Ms Owen Adams will continue as a trustee.