We were delighted to celebrate Connect’s 20th anniversary on Monday 18^th May 2026 with a special networking breakfast at Gaddesden Place Riding for the Disabled to recognise two decades of helping local businesses connect with the community and support good causes across Dacorum.

Held at their stables in Gaddesden Place, the event reflected Connect’s long-standing commitment to building meaningful relationships between the business, voluntary and public sectors. As Dacorum’s longest-running networking group, Connect has spent the past 20 years creating opportunities for businesses to engage with local charities, strengthen their social impact and play an active role in improving lives in the area. By placing community at the centre of the anniversary event, Connect reinforced the principle that successful business networking can also be a powerful force for local good.

At the event we were also delighted to present a certificate of membership to our newest Silver Member, At Home Care, who provide a variety of different compassionate care services across Dacorum for people in their own homes.  I am sure you will see Ashan Malik and Joshua Grimsdale at our future networking events as they get to know our community.

It was great to hear from the staff and volunteers from Gaddesden Place RDA about the wonderful work they do, offering anyone with additional needs and disabilities the opportunity to participate in a range of equine based activities, and got to meet the ponies.  Attendees were invited to stay on and volunteer in their sensory garden, helping to spruce up a space that is important to riders and visitors alike. The garden provides a stimulating and enjoyable environment for those taking part in equine activities, and the hands-on volunteering gave businesses a practical way to demonstrate their support while leaving a positive impact at the centre.

The event was a fitting celebration of Connect’s achievements over the past two decades and a reminder of the value of bringing people together around a shared purpose. As Connect looks ahead, its mission remains the same: to help businesses build stronger links with the local community and create lasting benefits through partnership, volunteering and shared commitment.

Connect is a service provided by Community Action Dacorum to help businesses connect with the local community. For further information about Connect and future networking opportunities, please contact cindy@communityactiondacorum.org.uk