The part-time CEO of Rhayader & District Community Support (RDCS) is stepping down after nearly three years in the role.
Laurence Gellor, who has led the organisation known locally as the Arches, will leave his role this year as the organisation celebrates its 40th anniversary.
The Arches, based on West Street, Rhayader, is a charity shop that provides a range of services to the local community.
These include community transport, a food bank, well-being projects, a nursery provision, volunteering opportunities, advice agency hosting, meeting rooms, and warm space.
Mr Gellor said: "It became apparent when I first arrived at the Arches what a special organisation it is, with a unique relationship to the Rhayader community - it’s really an institution.
"The level of care and concern for the wellbeing of residents shown by staff and volunteers is informed by the intimacy of that relationship.
"Staff and volunteers from the local community are absolutely crucial to the organisation's success."
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During his tenure, Mr Gellor received a national award as a Community Media Champion in 2022.
The Arches team also received several accolades, including the Powys Business Awards Charity of the Year 2023, the Investors in Volunteers Quality Mark, improved nursery performance ratings from Care Inspectorate Wales in 2024, and the Powys (PAVO) Transport Team Volunteer Awards 2024.
The Arches also secured significant grant funding from national, regional, and local sources.
Mr Gellor said: "To be clear, our achievements over the last three years have been a team effort.
"It has been a privilege to occupy the role at the Arches and to have contributed in some small way to the development of the organisation.
"From my part-time perspective, it became increasingly apparent that as the organisation moves to another phase of development, this would really require a full-time commitment.
"Due to my current work and personal obligations, that is not possible.
"Whilst sad to be leaving in many ways, I believe this presents a great opportunity for the organisation, notably for the trustees, staff, and volunteers to refine purpose and collectively frame an improved operational structure to deliver even greater benefit to the Rhayader community going forwards.
"As you might tell, whilst I may be leaving, I remain an ardent supporter of the Arches – so here’s to another forty years."
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