Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation is well known for its focus on community philanthropy and has been at the heart of supporting people, places and communities across Greater Melbourne for more than 100 years. The Foundation is part of a growing global movement of over 1800 community foundations, including almost 50 across Australia.
On the eve of Community Foundations Australia’s National Forum, we look at how community foundations are becoming important assets for local communities.
Community foundations are powerful catalysts for positive social change. They bring together people, ideas, and resources to help build stronger, more connected and resilient communities.
Established by the community, for the community, these charitable foundations create opportunities for everyone to be involved in philanthropy to make a change or lasting impact on social issues. In essence, everyone has an opportunity to participate in making a difference to local issues through local action.
Community Foundation Australia’s Director of Communities and Members, Rosie Funder says, “What makes these foundations so effective is their deep connection to the communities they support. For solutions to last, they need to be owned and directed by local people.
“Local people know their needs best, and community foundations provide the platform to drive meaningful change through structured giving programs, grants, research, and innovative solutions to take on local issues.
“Not all community foundations are the same, but they all have one thing in common – they are focused on creating positive change in their communities.”
Through local collaborations and partnering with donors, local not-for-profits, and other funders, community foundations pool resources to create a sustainable source of funding that can address both the immediate needs of today and the challenges tomorrow.
To learn more about the power of community philanthropy, visit Community Foundations Australia.