About The Marble Project

A small charity making a big difference since 2005

The Marble Project was set up in 2005 by a group of like-minded friends in Essex. Some of us had previously visited Berkovitsa in Bulgaria with another charity and knew of the challenges faced by the people there — particularly at the local orphanage, the home for young people with disabilities, and the old people’s home.

What brought us together was a desire to provide practical assistance while pursuing no external agenda of our own. Our members come from various backgrounds, and are of different faiths and of none. Our aim is simply to improve the quality of life of vulnerable children, elderly people, and those with disabilities — in material ways and, importantly, through human contact.

How We Work

We raise money throughout the year and channel it to deserving projects in Berkovitsa via friends we have made in the town — some elected officials, others volunteers like us.

Once a year, 12 to 15 members travel to Bulgaria. They fund all their own travel and accommodation costs. Our administrative costs are as near to zero as possible — every pound goes where it should.

Where We Work

Our work is focused on Berkovitsa, a town in the Montana region of north-west Bulgaria.

The Berkovitsa Orphanage
The Montana Baby Orphanage
The Home for Young People with Disabilities
The Old People’s Home
The Montana Crisis Centre

Our Values

Zero Admin Costs
Every pound donated reaches the cause

Personal & Direct
We know the people and places we support

Practical Help
Building, decorating, equipment, activities

Human Connection
Our presence matters as much as our funding

Governance & the Annual General Meeting

The Marble Project is a UK registered charity (number 1125066), run by volunteer trustees with no paid staff. We hold an Annual General Meeting each January, where the trustees present the year’s activities, finances, and direction of travel. The most recent AGM was held on 21 January 2026.

You can view the 2026 AGM presentation, see how the charity is governed, and find links to our Charity Commission entry.

Why “The Marble Project”?

A lot of the purely descriptive alternatives were rather long and unwieldy. Marbles suggest the innocence of a childhood game. Marble is strong, resilient and long-lasting. In a world where so many voices clamour for attention, a name that is memorable and arouses curiosity is no bad thing.

This, then, is the Marble Project. “Marbles” to its friends. The sum total of the efforts of its volunteers and supporters, both here and in Bulgaria. Anyone willing to leave their egos behind and provide some practical assistance to people who need it — that is what makes us unique.