The Milton Keynes Dons Community Trust is building on a year of significant activity and success, with plans to further extend its positive influence across the city.
The organisation has confirmed that over £48,000 was generated to support charities aiding individuals experiencing homelessness. Hundreds of Milton Keynes residents have also benefited from a variety of programmes focused on community engagement, health, and overall wellbeing.
Building on Momentum
With the new football season commencing, the Trust’s Chief Executive Officer, Paul Mitchell, has outlined a strategic focus on increasing the scope and effectiveness of its work.
Mr Mitchell highlighted the excitement surrounding Stadium MK, particularly following the club’s promotion to Sky Bet League One.
He noted that the start of a new season provides an opportunity to assess the positive impact of the Trust’s programmes and to plan for continued engagement, inspiration, and support for people of all ages within Milton Keynes.
The past summer was described as exceptionally busy for the Trust. Activities included supporting inclusion football teams at the Special Olympics GB National Games in Birmingham.
The Trust also organised an inter-home sports day for Milton Keynes care homes, alongside a successful relaunch of its summer soccer schools.
These events served as a reminder of the significant impact of the Trust’s efforts.
Reflecting on his tenure as CEO, which began just over a year ago, Mr Mitchell expressed pride not just in the number of people engaged, but in the individual stories behind these figures.
He emphasised that each participant’s gain in confidence, discovery of a new passion, or increased sense of community connection represents the true value of the Trust’s work.
Looking forward, the Trust’s ambition is to expand its achievements, aiming for larger and more impactful outcomes in the 2026/2027 period.
Key Initiatives and Fundraising
Building on the success of previous fundraising, the CEO Sleepout event is scheduled to return to Stadium MK in November. Details for this event are expected to be released shortly.
The Trust hopes to see increased participation and fundraising, with proceeds again being distributed among several local charities, including The Shelter MK, Unity MK, YMCA Milton Keynes, and the Trust itself.
The ‘Walk from Woughton’ event, which was successfully launched in April, will also be making a comeback.
Mr Mitchell noted that the inaugural Walk from Woughton allowed supporters to engage with the Trust’s work in a new capacity.
He observed that the Milton Keynes community shows a desire to actively contribute to positive change.
This year’s Walk from Woughton will feature a partnership with the George Baldock Foundation.
This collaboration aims to raise crucial funds for young people in Milton Keynes, providing them with safe and social environments to develop confidence, build friendships, and participate in physical activities.
Focus on Wellbeing and Employability
A significant and ongoing focus for the coming year will be the support of mental health initiatives.
This includes hosting the Mental Health World Cup at Stadium MK in May 2027.
The Trust also aims to be at the forefront of programmes supporting employability and assisting individuals in finding work.
The Trust acknowledges that these endeavours are made possible through the support of participants, partners, staff, and volunteers.
Collaborative efforts are anticipated to make the 2026/27 season the most impactful to date.
The Trust’s vision for success in 2026/27 includes expanding opportunities, fostering more partnerships, supporting a greater number of people, and positively transforming more lives.
This story is based on reporting by MKFM. Read the original coverage: MKFM