Stewartry Council of Voluntary Service is in danger of folding after two board members quit.
Now the charity is pinning survival hopes on new people stepping forward at its upcoming AGM.
Chairman Derek Smith said the resignations — on health grounds — cast doubt over SCVS’ future.
He said: “We have lost two trustees and we are now down to four. We need some youngsters who have not retired so we can get a younger board.
“I feel gap-year students could really benefit and this would be a great opportunity for them.
“People don’t have to do it for a lifetime. Even if they do it for a year that would be wonderful.
“But if we don’t get them we will go under and disappear.”
Mr Smith, 75, hopes a big AGM turnout will bring in new people willing to become trustees.
He said: “Development meetings run by the Scottish Government are available for free for anyone wishing to help.
“Councillor Dougie Campbell has volunteered which will be most useful.
“Our goal remains to recruit sufficient volunteers to enable SCVS to open five days a week.”
Councillor Campbell said: “SCVS has a track regard in supporting dozens of voluntary organisations across the Stewartry and over many years although the good work that it does might not be well known.
“So it’s vital that SCVS recruits trustees to oversee its work. It’s not an onerous role but a very important one and I really hope we can encourage people to put themselves forward and join the team.”
The AGM comes as SCVS prepares to leave St Mary Street next month with the Kirkcudbright Development Trust.
The groups are moving to the old library on High Street until permanent offices at Johnston School are ready next year.
Mr Smith added: “SCVS is still very much in a recovery mode with a considerable shortfall in funding.
“Currently we are funded by a council grant, direct monthly donations from friends, residents and clients plus generous one-off cash gifts from past clients and friends.
“It is doubtful that these arrangements can be sustained long term.
“If new trustees can learn how to turn SCVS into a social enterprise that’s the way forward.
“There is a great deal of reward in volunteering and helping the community.”
SCVS supports over 100 local clubs, groups and charities ranging from branches of national and international organisations to the local gardening clubs.
It also helps individuals with everyday issues affecting their lives and groups such as Stewartry Food Bank in alleviating poverty.
