CHARITIES need more business-minded volunteers to meet growing demands for help in the age of austerity, says the newly-elected New Forest Trust chairman.
William Ziegler is looking for new talent to help the trust support organisations that strive to conserve the flora, fauna and Commoning practices of the New Forest, many of which have seen Government funding cut in recent years.
The trust has generated almost £100,000 for conservation work since launching its Visitor Gifting Scheme in 2006.
Mr Ziegler said: “Given the trend in reduced funding from the Government, I think our value to the Forest will increase.
“While the New Forest Trust has always benefited from a core membership of passionate trustees, we have identified a need for some specific skills as we grow.
“It’s essential that we make ourselves more professional, and what we need in order to do that is a bit of fresh blood with business expertise.”
Mr Ziegler is a third generation New Forester and has been involved in several local organisations, including serving 10 years as the chairman of the New Forest Association – one of the world’s oldest conservation bodies.
He succeeds Richard Manley, who was at the helm of the New Forest Trust for eight years and oversaw the introduction of the Visitor Gifting Scheme, which has funded many projects to improve conservation and the education of visitors to the New Forest.
To get involved visit newforesttrust.org.uk.
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