Across Murihiku Southland, a quiet but powerful movement is growing - one rooted in generosity and community connection.
At the heart of this movement are community foundations, each working to grow giving and build sustainable funding streams across our communities.
Recognising the pivotal role community foundations can play in supporting our communities now, and for generations to come, Community Trust South is a proud supporter of Clutha Foundation, 45 South Community Foundation (previously Wakatipu Community Foundation) and more recently Southland Foundation.
Community Trust South Chief Executive, Jackie Flutey, shared that that when funders support other funders, it fosters a culture of philanthropy that amplifies the impact and funding available.
“By supporting community foundations across our rohe/region with operational funding, we are strategically collaborating to build a funding network that can respond to a wider range of needs and priorities.”
Operational funding support is considered best philanthropic practice for funders because of the flexibility and stability it can provide. Mrs Flutey said that this gives organisations the platform from which to more effectively focus on pursuing their mission.
“In the case of our community foundations, having more time to raise awareness of philanthropy helps to ensure that giving across our communities is both impactful and enduring.”
Established in 2024, the Southland Foundation is the newest philanthropic organisation in the region. Dedicated to fostering and expanding generosity, it is playing a key role in strengthening communities by building long-term, sustainable funding streams.
Southland Foundation General Manager Robyn Koehler said Community Trust South’s support has played a crucial role in the successful development of the Foundation.
“Along with financial assistance, what this operating support has given us is the stability to focus on both short term and long-term impact, strengthening our processes and systems, and deepening our community engagement.”
The giving model of a community foundation is simple and trusted, inspiring and enabling generosity and giving by receiving gifts and bequests from generous individuals, businesses, and organisations. These funds are then collectively invested, so that the capital remains intact, while a portion of the income generated is distributed annually to support local causes and communities. By connecting generous people with the causes that matter most to them, community foundations can help to create lasting impact for our communities.
Community Trust South’s support of this mahi is more than a grant - it’s a vote of confidence in the role community foundations play as local funders. It’s also recognition that sustainable funding streams are essential to supporting the people and places of the South to thrive.
Mrs Flutey agreed sharing how working together benefits all our communities.
“Together we can build a future where generosity is woven into the fabric of Murihiku Southland.”
With shared purpose and enduring support, Community Trust South, Southland Foundation, Clutha Foundation and 45 South Community Foundation are contributing to a stronger, more resilient and thriving south.
