Cumbria Community Foundation - Annual Review 2021

2 3 MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN INTRODUCTION Cumbria Community Foundation is an independent charity that connects people who care with causes that matter The Foundation exists to tackle poverty and disadvantage and to strengthen Cumbria’s communities by inspiring philanthropic giving and by connecting people who give money with inspirational, life-changing projects. Our fundholders and supporters benefit from our in-depth knowledge of Cumbrian communities and organisations that we have gained from over 20 years of grant-making and investment in the county. We have responded to emerging need in times of crisis by launching successful disaster appeals, and most recently, the Cumbria COVID-19 Response Fund, which raised and distributed more than £3m to support our communities. We are one of Cumbria’s foremost grant makers with an annual grant distribution of circa £3m and endowed assets in excess of £25m. Since 1999, we have awarded more than £50m in grant aid and currently have more than 100 grant making funds. We have funded over 4,000 organisations and 8,000 individuals. An independent organisation, we have a board of trustees drawn from across the county, all of whom are highly respected from community life, businesses and the public sector. Part of a global network of 1,400 community foundations, together we encourage philanthropy and strengthen the voluntary sectors and communities in the countries, regions, and towns in which we operate. We are part of the fastest growing philanthropic movement in the UK with 46 member foundations and over £0.5 billion in assets and are independently accredited by the UK Community Foundation. Message from the Chairman This past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected every person, our workplaces, and our communities. In comparison to other disasters, this one has affected all of us in one way or another, making the phrase “in this together” even more significant. It feels counter-intuitive but in a time when we have been forced to be apart, we have seen communities come together and get stronger. This has been a positive outcome from this challenging time. In a way, communities are like strong families: ones which we at Cumbria Community Foundation want to help support, nurture, and strengthen both in good times and during stressful ones. We can only do this through your generosity, your compassion for your communities, and it provides hope for what can be accomplished together. Cumbria Community Foundation and all our funders, past and present, are a testament to our community’s efforts to improve the wellbeing of disadvantaged fellow Cumbrians today and provide funds for the next generation—funds that address today’s and tomorrow’s critical needs. Our purpose is to help our communities respond to problems with effective long-lasting solutions so needs are met whenever they arise. As you plan your charitable giving, please consider a gift to your community through the Foundation. It’s the perfect way to support your community and to say thank you to the many organisations that enhance everyone’s quality of life. From this past year, we know now, more than ever before, that we are all better and stronger together. We are hugely grateful for the generosity of our donors; the support of our members; our wonderful staff team, grant committee members and trustees; and the staff and volunteers at so many amazing charities that are making a real difference in our communities and which we are privileged to be able to support. David Beeby Chairman Front cover image: Amy’s Care specialises in providing day care for older adults, particularly for those living with dementia. Funding supported the purchase of a trishaw, to help older people experience the joy and freedom of cycling in the outdoors. Ragtag Arts in Kendal received £1,200 from the Cumbria COVID-19 Response Fund to provide craft bags for families across South Lakeland, helping children to keep busy and stimulate their imagination during lockdown.