Today, Carolina House Trust continues its mission.
A Dundee charity which has provided nurturing homes to thousands of local children has celebrated its 210th anniversary at a Civic Reception in the city.
Founded in 1815 by a group of Dundonians determined to support local families in hardship, the charity established the city’s first orphanage.
Today, Carolina House Trust continues its mission through an award-winning fostering service, supporting children and young people to thrive in stable, family-based care.
The anniversary event welcomed supporters, carers and young people connected to the charity. Guests were piped into the reception by the Black Watch Army Cadet Force Pipes and Drums, including one of the Trust’s own young people.
Reflecting on the milestone, Donald MacKenzie, chair of Carolina House Trust and a former social worker, said: “During my ten years on the board, I’ve seen Carolina House Trust successfully grow a culture that runs right through our community, from management and social workers to our administrators, carers, and young people. It’s a culture of trying, learning and persevering.
“By embracing a growth mindset approach, we help carers equip young people with the tools to overcome challenges and navigate the difficulties they may have faced or continue to face.
“Two centuries ago, Dundonians recognised the need to provide for vulnerable children. While the world has changed, our mission to give every young person the chance to reach their full potential remains the same.
“Fostering is about more than meeting needs. It’s also about building independence, confidence and purpose and it’s extremely rewarding for both carers and young people to see these opportunities evolve and develop.”
Dominic (19), who lives with foster carers Andy and Caroline under Scotland’s Continuing Care arrangements, also spoke about the difference fostering has made to his life.
Now working as a greenkeeper at a golf course in Angus after completing a year of studying Civil Engineering at Dundee and Angus College, Dominic said: “I have lived with Andy and Caroline for ten years now, since I was 9. It doesn’t feel that long.
“I have had more opportunities than I can count, especially things like going to watch Newcastle United Football Club, going running with Andy and holidays to North Wales, Cornwall and Seton Sands.”
Sara Lovelock, Chief Operating Officer of Carolina House Trust, added: “It was a genuine honour to celebrate our 210th anniversary alongside our carers, young people, and partners.
“We are proud of our history and heritage, and equally committed to providing modern, therapeutic care that meets today’s needs. But there’s a challenge ahead. With over 7,000 additional foster carers needed across the UK in the next 12 months, we want to remind people that fostering is accessible as well as life-changing, whether you’re open to offering long-term care or short breaks.
“We’d love to hear from anyone willing to open their home to a young person and create even more opportunities for them to thrive.”
