The Dates-n-Mates project is run by the charity C Change. It currently has 140 members and organizes six events each month.
Dates-n-Mates, the first project of its kind in Scotland, is now in its fifth year and offers members a variety of social get togethers including book clubs, day trips, quiz nights, and speed dating.
Joanne Purdon has worked as volunteer for over two years. "It is really rewarding seeing people make new friends," she said. "My little girl has a learning difficulty so it might help me help her in the future."
The lottery grant will ensure the project can continue to run for another five years.
