Scott Montgomery, a charity worker from Kilmarnock, has been honored with the Employee of the Year award at the Scottish Charity Awards 2026, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the local community.
A Night of Celebration
The awards ceremony took place at the Radisson Blu in Glasgow, hosted by Sally Magnusson and organized annually by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO). The event celebrated the best of Scotland's voluntary sector, with 35 individuals and organizations shortlisted across nine categories.
Scott's Inspiring Journey
Scott, who works as Hub Operations Lead at The Killie Community, turned personal tragedy into a force for good. After losing his son, he found purpose through the charity and now leads programs that empower around 3,000 people each year. His lived experience enables him to connect with individuals facing bereavement, recovery, and physical or mental health challenges, guiding them toward positive change.
In the past year alone, Scott has raised £17,000 through fundraising and led inclusive programs that inspire lasting change across Ayrshire.
Words from the Winner
Scott said: "A few years ago, I walked through the doors of The Killie Community Hub looking for support at one of the hardest points in my life. I never imagined I'd be standing here today with a national award for Employee of the Year. This recognition means a huge amount to our charity and entire community, not just to me. It sends a powerful message to every person who is going through the toughest of times and looking for support, connection or hope from charities like ours. It shows that no matter how difficult life can become, there are always people willing to help you take that next step forward. I want to thank my incredible colleagues, our volunteers, partners and supporters who make this work possible every single day."
Praise from SCVO
Anna Fowlie, chief executive of SCVO, commented: "What a fantastic event to recognise the accomplishments of organisations and individuals throughout Scotland's voluntary sector. Our finalists and winners are outstanding examples of the incredible impact made possible through the dedication of those who work and volunteer within charities, community organisations and social enterprises. They continue to champion important causes, deliver essential support and help create stronger, more vibrant communities. Every community and every area of society benefits from the valuable work that SCVO has the privilege of witnessing every day. Thank you to everyone who took part in this year's Scottish Charity Awards, including our sponsors, the Radisson Blu for hosting the event, and of course Sally Magnusson, who was as wonderful as ever. Congratulations to all of the finalists and winners – I'm already excited to see what 2027 has in store!"
Full List of Winners
- Campaign of the Year: Victim Support Scotland
- Volunteer of the Year: Jim Cassidy - Men Matter Scotland
- Climate Impact: Crail Community Partnership
- Employee of the Year: Scott Montgomery - The Killie Community
- Partnership of the Year: The Junction, Granton Youth, Wester Hailes Youth Agency, Canongate Youth, and 6VT - Time to Talk Partnership
- Trustee of the Year: Susan Griffin - Glenurquhart Rural Community Association
- Charity of the Year (<£100k): Beyond Srebrenica
- Charity of the Year (£100K - £500K): Megan's Space
- Charity of the Year (>£500k): Amma Birth Companions
Government Recognition
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville added: "Congratulations to all of this year's Scottish Charity Awards winners and finalists. The work being celebrated demonstrates the extraordinary difference that charities make to communities right across Scotland every single day. Whether tackling violence against women, supporting mental health, or driving climate action, these organisations are addressing some of our toughest social challenges at their source. The Scottish Government is proud to stand alongside Scotland's third sector. That is why we are committed to developing a Third Sector Partnership - a formal agreement co-designed with the sector to strengthen its voice and improve lives. Additionally, we want to continue to improve funding arrangements so that organisations like tonight's winners can plan and deliver with confidence for the long term."
