The search is on for help in building a better Bridport.

The charity behind two successful community projects is urging people to become part of its team and use their skills and experience to make a difference.

Bridport Area Development Trust (BADT) has restored and returned historic buildings to high-profile roles. 

A former beachside chapel was transformed into West Bay Discovery Centre, a popular, multi-award-winning attraction for locals and visitors.

The architecturally-important Literary and Scientific Institute (LSi), in East Street, has become home to an innovative charitable-commercial partnership that also offers the public a range of office, activity and meeting spaces for individuals and groups.

Crowdfunder is the trust's lead tenant at the LSi and manages the facilities available to the public. Hot desks, drop desks and the meeting room can be booked online at lsibridport.co.uk/spaces

A regular user of the LSi's facilities is The Bank of Dreams and Nightmares, an inspirational creative writing course for young people. The courtyard was also the venue recently for The Making of Bridport, a sold-out talk by the architectural historian Tim Connor, hosted by BADT as part of its commitment to continuing community involvement at the historic building.

Now trustees are being recruited as BADT explores follow-up opportunities. 

Trust chair Phyllida Culpin said: "In these challenging times, organisations like Bridport Area Development Trust play a key role in keeping historic buildings open – the Discovery Centre and the LSi, for example – and enabling our community to access them for learning, work and fun. 

"These challenges aren't going to get any easier. Local groups want spaces for activities including food preparation and distribution, the arts, employment, job and social opportunities for young people, and more, yet historic buildings are standing empty and at risk.

"We are lucky to have a great group of dedicated trustees but we want to supplement our range of skills and broaden our perspectives to meet the challenges ahead. 

"Are you brilliant at social media or IT; do you have fundraising, marketing or legal expertise; do you have links to community groups with needs, ideas and aspirations? If so, we want to hear from you. 

"If you would like to know more about what being a trustee involves we would be delighted to meet for a chat.

"Your compassion, enthusiasm and commitment will help to reduce social and financial inequality, tackle deprivation and boost the fight for a fairer, more caring and inclusive community."

Those interested should email [email protected]