CONNECTING AND GROWING FOR 30 YEARS

ANNUAL REVIEW 15/16 In the past 8 years, our fund has grown to £163,495, we’ve awarded 21 grants totalling £17,489, supporting 19 community Supporting over projects, helping 7,072 people. Last year alone our fund was able to provide over £5,100 of support and this will continue for 100,000* people years to come. We proudly support the Community Foundation in all they do, making MK a great place to live and work. As Chair I hope to raise a year in Milton awareness of this work, inspiring local businesses and individuals to support their Community Foundation in changing lives in MK. Keynes As MK Community Foundation celebrates thirty years of helping our community develop, please think about what you and your family or business can do for the future of Milton Keynes. There I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the Chair of are still many more issues that we need to address, many of which MK Community Foundation, having supported we’ve highlighted in our Vital Signs reports. Two in five children in MK Community Foundation myself since 1996 some of our estates live in poverty, homelessness is at an all-time through my business, David Lock Associates. high and hospital stays for self-harm are 15% higher than the national average. Please continue to help us tackle these issues to support local people who aren’t benefiting as much from our city’s I’d like to thank you, our donors, for sharing your success with success. those who are less fortunate in our community, helping make £17,489 Milton Keynes a better place to live, work and raise a family. Thank you for playing your part in Because of your support local charities thrive, with over 100,000* helping the whole of our people benefiting from our grants programmes and property subsidies each year. community succeed. You are MK Community Foundation, and we can only continue Our fund has grown to Two in five children in some our important work because of you. Thanks to your trust in us £163,495, we’ve awarded of our estates live in poverty, to look after your donations and endowments, we can support groups to help people in our community flourish. 21 grants totalling £17,489, homelessness is at an all time As town planners and urban design consultants building new communities, David Lock Associates joined MK Community supporting 19 community high and hospital stays for self Foundation as corporate members 20 years ago, initially donating projects, helping 7,072 harm are 15% higher than the £900 a year. In 2008 we pledged to increase our support for the Community Foundation, as we felt that the charity’s model people. national average. of helping new communities develop and thrive met our core objectives as a business and we could do more. Whilst this was a pressing time economically we decided that if we didn’t support this important local work we couldn’t expect our own projects across the UK to thrive. Our team pledged to donate £1,000 a month to The David Lock Associates Fund, an endowment fund set up to help local organisations in perpetuity, with grants made each year from the interest raised by the fund. 15%

Lawrence Revill Chair MK Community Foundation *Based on figures provided by grant recipients

MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 1 Julia collecting her award at the Women Leaders Awards Dinner

Julia Upton MBE Chief Executive 1997-2016

It has been a privilege to have led the Community Foundation as I am passionate about Milton Keynes and the people who make our community. There are many inspirational “I’ve had the joy and pleasure people with commitment to develop and deliver amazing projects which help people live to work with many inspirational life to the full, including people whose people who together have made organisations are responding to the increased MK Community Foundation the diversity of our new city, which contributes so much to our community’s vibrancy. success it is today.”

Our role as a grant maker and owners of activity. We secured money which the In 1997 it was thrilling to support large capital Creating legacy funds has been a way of in a spirit of openness, sharing best practice I’ve had the joy and pleasure to work with property is to support voluntary and Government made available to develop projects which continue to have an impact on acknowledging the contribution of people, and demonstrating that we are stronger many inspirational people who together have community sector activity, so they innovate philanthropy, and in 2015 we were the lives of those with a range of disabilities, including the first Chief Executive of the together. made MK Community Foundation the success and respond to the many needs, to have a acknowledged as being the leading community including Camphill the community for adults Community Foundation, Tim Hill and his wife it is today, providing £1.7 million of support to It was a wonderful surprise to receive the positive and long term impact on local lives. foundation in securing an additional living with learning disabilities, the new MK Theresea. We also have memorial funds in the local charities and community groups last year. Outstanding Contribution to Milton Keynes £3.129M to match donors’ contributions, Theatre, for state of the art disability access. name of Fred Roche, Edward Hurley and This is a legacy I am truly proud of, having been Building on the grant we secured in 2005 to award at the inaugural Women Leaders creating more permanent funds. Both these capital projects were funded by one Christopher Hopkinson. part of a movement enabling local people to develop Acorn House into a hub for the Awards dinner in November 2015, an award in of our donors, the Powell Foundation. share one another’s successes, helping our voluntary and community sector, I was In understanding the needs of our community, Partnerships are now part of the Community April 2016 from Citizens:mk for Outstanding community thrive. thrilled when we purchased the sister building I like to think I leave behind a legacy through In 2014 the Powell Foundation trustees Foundation’s DNA. By working together we Contribution to MK Community, The in 2012 to greatly enhance our offer to the the Vital Signs research project, which is now entrusted us with all their assets which we extend our expertise and reach – and I Principal’s Partnership Award for Outstanding I look forward to seeing my successor Ian community and rename the building after one in its fourth year of reporting on the health of were able to match from the Government sincerely thank The Open University, Sports Partnership with MK College in May 2016 and Revell developing the work of the Community of most generous philanthropists, Margaret Milton Keynes as a place to live and work. scheme to increase philanthropy. Creating the Aid, LEAP, MK Gallery, Milton Keynes City then to have been awarded an MBE in this Foundation, supporting the community sector Powell. We continue to develop our property Our research findings, particularly on child Margaret Powell Foundation Fund means this Orchestra, MK College, The Parks Trust, year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours. in Milton Keynes, our home, our community so that it leads and responds to the many poverty, reinforced our commitment to achieve endowment generates in the region of £250K Park, Community Action: MK, MK and our future. However, the success of the Community changes in our city. accreditation as a Living Wage employer. every year to support great projects. In 2015 Dons SET, The Christian Foundation, Age UK Foundation is thanks to the many wonderful In 2013, I suggested Milton Keynes should Margaret’s nephew agreed to spend the Milton Keynes, Sport MK, YMCA Milton We are leaders in developing philanthropy in people who have supported us over the years, think big, and become a Living Wage City by growth of the fund, to contribute £311K Keynes, and many others for their willingness our community and engaging with people who so I thank all the trustees, honorary members, working in partnership with the Living Wage towards MK Gallery’s expansion and to say ‘yes’ when we are striving to do more have the ability to give money – individuals, community representatives, staff and the Foundation and Citizens:mk. development to create additional facilities and to enter into a relationship of transparency families and companies, so that we can fund a voluntary and community sector for their for people with disabilities. and trust. I also wish to thank my colleagues Julia Upton MBE wide range of voluntary and community sector great work and all our generous donors who throughout the network of Community make it possible. Chief Executive Foundations and UK Community Foundation, as over the years we have worked strategically,

2 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 3 £20 million invested in the community Kids Run Free received over 30 years £1,720 to set up fun, running based activities for children in their local parks and schools. From humble beginnings in 1986 when Since 1986 grant making and support we awarded three grants totalling for the community has risen steadily, £4,662, we’ve provided over £20 with 251 grants being awarded this year. £1.7 million of support has been awarded to million of support to local organisations local charities and community groups in our and voluntary groups making MK a community this year thanks to your support. happy, healthy place to live and work Total support for the community - 1986-2016 through our grants programme and First grants awarded - 10th June 1987 rent subsidies. £1,800,000

£1,600,000

£1,400,000

MK Community Foundation through the years... 1987 £1,200,000

£1,000,000

£800,000

£600,000

£400,000

£200,000

£0 *

2000/01 1986/87 1987/88 1988/89 1989/90 1990/91 1991/92 1992/93 1993/94 1994/95 1995/96 1996/97 1997/98 1998/99 2001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 1999/2000

MK Community Foundation’s Total Value of support first Annual Review. * Grants include an extraordinary award of £311,000 to MK Gallery for their expansion project

4 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 5 Grants awarded Between April 2015 and March 2016

Included in these grant awards are Examples of what your donations funded: projects supporting people overcoming poverty, and living with disabilities and/or health issues. Education & Skills 3 months, 1 week and 5 Children & days of festivals, community Young People celebrations and fun days

Arts

1 outdoor Older play area People Disability Cultural Diversity 427 people were transported by coach to events, plays and 7 gardens and parties, filling nearly 7 double green spaces decker buses

Economic Sport & Recreation 3 lawn mowers

1 boiler

195 local 11 paid organisations funded positions

£40,000 towards £659,366 projects supporting 1,779 lunches and hot meals of grants and financial support were homelessness awarded this year to help local people live their lives to the full. 251 grants Can you help us support more important local projects? awarded Donate online at www.mkcommunityfoundation.co.uk.

6 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 7 British Red Cross Society's Stepping Stones allotment project 21% of grant applications £1,500 funded the British Red Cross Society's Stepping Stones allotment came from groups that project. “It allows us to be ourselves and share ideas. We meet different people and are new to us. hear their ideas. In Africa, we do things differently, so I am learning new ways of doing things.”

British Red Cross Society's We award grants from under £200 to over £1,500 Steppting Stones allotment project £1,500 £25,000 to help local charities support people in our community through our Aspects Trust grant programmes. Whilst micro grants £5,000 helped the Aspects Trust set up a new safe space for Aspects Trust project may be small at £200 their impact in the local children and young people on the autistic spectrum. beneficiaries enjoying The group provides support and peer networking for the seaside. community is significant. parents, carers and guardians.

£250

Duncombe Street Community House beach trip

Duncombe Street Community House “It’s the first time I have been to the seaside, £5,000 what a wonderful feeling!” Duncombe Street Walton Churches' Groups Community House received £1,500 to take £250 funded Walton Parish Churches' 170 people to Bournemouth for a day trip. Arts for Health Groups February Half Term family fun The ToTS Cafe £19,072 was awarded to Arts for Health for their Do Good Feel Good event at Broughton Pavillion from the New “I took my 2 year old daughter to the disco Project, a volunteer programme for people with mental health issues and Communities Fund. and she really enjoyed playing the games and older people with dementia. “We love the family fun days as it’s a great dancing! I was so happy to see my little girl Sharon Paulger from Arts for Health said “The programme is run by opportunity to make new friends. There is having so much fun thank you.” – Beneficiary of Walton Parish Churches Group volunteers who give their time to provide interesting activities for our always something new for the kids to learn Family Fun Day The ToTs Cafe, £622 start up grant, including a arts groups. Carers have told us how beneficial the programme has about and do. It’s a highlight of our holidays.” fundraising disco. been for their patients. What seem like small changes are life changing for these individuals and the opportunity to meet other people in the community suffering with dementia is really valuable.”

Support vital community projects that matter to you. Speak to the Fund Development Team about channelling your giving to local issues you care about. Email [email protected]. £19,072 Dementia patient creating artwork with the support of her carer

8 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 9 Celebrating 30 years of grant Over £1,166,000 support for Through the years... 1993

making with the community local charities with Volkswagen Carol Lancaster collecting her keys as the winner of the 1993 car raffle. Waterhall Stars Football Club

To celebrate our 30th birthday we Editor Olga Norford said: “The Citizen is proud Volkswagen UK Ltd has supported MK “We are proud of our longstanding partnership to support MK Community Foundation and to with the Community Foundation. We have partnered with MK Citizen to help Through the years... Community Foundation since it began, local people understand how we work in partnership to mark its anniversary 1990 as Founder Patrons donating £5,000 been at the centre of the city for almost 40 year by launching the Citizen Fund which is years and this partnership enables us to support their communities. helping so many people and deserving causes a year. Today VW donate £12,000 give something back to the people of Milton 10,208 each year to their fund, set up in 2012, Each month the paper is showcasing a grant across MK.” Keynes. A commitment we intend to continue.” local people have been to help vulnerable members of the awarded from The Citizen Fund to highlight Kevin Duffy, Centre Director of centre:mk helped and 15 projects how all corners of the community are community. supported by MK Community Foundation. have been supported since VW have a flow through fund, which means This year £12,000 will be awarded from the the VW Fund was created that all money that comes into the fund in a Citizen Fund for projects helping local people in 2012. £1,500 year is spent the next financial year. across MK. “As a high profile employer within Milton was awarded to Waterhall Over the years Volkswagen have donated over Waterhall Stars Football Club Keynes, we have an obligation to lead by £166,000 to MK Community Foundation, in “This funding helps us to make it possible for Stars Football Club to example and constantly question ourselves as addition to donating a new car for the past 27 every kid to play football. Lots of parents provide free spaces to what more we can do for the community. years for the Community Charity Car Raffle worry about the cost of sending their This is driven even more by the desire of our for young people to raising £1 million for local charities. children to the club and this funding helps join their football The first car raffle prize - 1990 staff to help and contribute. We are proud to us provide equal opportunities regardless club in Bletchley. The Charity Car Raffle is made possible thanks have supported the Community Foundation of background. For any parents with to Volkswagen Group UK who supply the for the last 30 years and look forward to children who want to play football please first prize of a car, centre:mk who provide a continuing to do so for many more years to bring them to the club. Everyone is welcome.” 2016 space for the car in the shopping centre and come.” Rob De Young, Chairman of the Employee Viv Dixon, Waterhall Stars Football Club Freestone Creative who design the car display. Forum Volkswagen UK Ltd.

Speak to the Fund Development Team to see how you can support Find out how we can manage your organisation’s charitable giving, projects that matter to you, call 01908 690276. Car raffle winner - 2016 email the team at [email protected].

10 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 11 “MK Community Foundation does a Our Members fantastic job in finding and selecting Thank you to our members great causes to support locally - whose donations support something that I could never do myself. I am therefore delighted that vital work in our community. my contributions are more effectively distributed and that they will make a genuine difference to local people.” Steve Hutchings, Member

Abdul Hai Eleanor Milburn ◊ + *Malcolm Brighton OBE DL Rebecca Brown ◊ Alexander Boswell DL, Vice Lord + Lady Elspeth Tudor Price & & Jenny Brighton Professor Rebecca Taylor Our Named Funds Leiutenant of & George Webster Marjorie MacDonald Hon. Richard Godber MBE DL Jane Boswell Our named fund holders help us target key issues Through the years... Fiona Pizzey Martine Frost & Candida Godber 1988 Anouar Kassim MBE & in the local community with their charitable giving. Fola Komolafe MBE, DL & Lady Mary Hatch Richard & Angela Freeman Marayam Kassim Kayode Komolafe We received our largest donation at the time ◊ * Maureen Hopkinson Richard & Helen Wightman Funds can focus on key issues that matter to donors. Antony & Maria Ripper from Abbey National for £10,000. ◊ ○ Francesca Skelton DL Michael Moutrie & Richard & Jennifer Walker Arthur & Kaye Adams & John Skelton Naomi Eisenstadt Richard Brown Ben & Gertrud Affleck * Gail Hawks Michael Murray DL & ◊ Robert & Carolyn Cumming DL Ben Stoneman George & Kirsty Anson Valerie Murray Robert & Claire Ruck-Keene Named Funds Bob & Marion Hill DL Harold Leake Michael Upson & Robert & Liz Gifford Adams Family Fund Gosal Family Fund NHBC Fund Brian & Ruth Salter Miranda Powell-Shedden JP DL Cheryl Hawkins-Upson Robert & Muriel de Grey Carola Holz Ian & Jan Walker ◊ Michael Reilly MBE The Ark Charity Fund Grant Thornton Fund Niftylift Fund Roger & Jill Kitchen Charles Mitchell Ian & Pat Townsend ◊ Mike & Caroline Pearson B/S/H Fund Waterside Festival Fund The Open University Fund ◊ ○ Roger Norman Charlotte Dunn Ingram & Juliet Murray ◊ Mike Rimmer & Sue Thomas Blairman and Beck Fund Home Retail Group Fund Pearson Family Fund Rt. Hon. Lord & Miranda Powell-Shedden JP DL Chris & Beverley Phillips ◊ Jacky Edwards Lady Scott of Foscote Boswell Family Fund Interdirect Limited Fund Reilly Grassroots Family Fund ○ Nicholas Mann ◊ Chris & Laura Keen Jan Lloyd Shahnaz Hussain Brighton Family Fund Keen Family Fund RSM Fund ◊ Pam Gosal Colin & Jacky Scott Jane Matthews Shaun Lee centre:mk Fund Koss Family Fund Shoosmiths Fund Patrick & Judith Hooper Dr Cris Tarrant & Jill Heaton Jason & Rebecca Myrie Shimon & Lesley Arkin Christopher Hopkinson Memorial Music Bursary Fund Margaret Powell Foundation Fund Skelton Family Fund Paul Maberly ◊ David & Jennifer Adams Jim & Sue Clifford ◊ ○ Simon & Brenda Ingram Paul & Shelley Griffiths Conniburrow Big Local Fund Milton Keynes Parks Trust Fund Tim and Theresea Hill Memorial Fund Dr David Joe Clinch Jim Donovan & Linda Crook Stephen & Ronny Kimbell Paul & Sue de Fraine Coventry Building Society Fund MK Citizen Fund Upton Family Fund David & Kathy Danskin Joan Campbell Stephen Eames & Stella Girvin Peter & Barbara Lomax Cumming Family Fund MK DASS Fund Volkswagen Group UK Ltd Fund David & Judy Knapman John & Amanda Nicholson DL Stephen Norrish MBE & ◊ ○ Peter & Jane Wilson David Lock Associates Ltd Fund MK Grassroots Sports Fund Wilson Family Fund David & Mary Locke John & Barbara Miller Annette Norrish David & Melanie Thrower John & Kim Durden Peter & Judy Ballard Steve Harris & Jan King Fred Roche Memorial Fund Network Rail Connecting Communities Fund David & Wendy Foster Sir John Southby BT & ◊ Peter & Léonie Thorogood Steven & Angela Hutchings David Chamberlain Lady Vicky Southby Peter & Margaret Wolfendale Sir Stuart Hampson DL & Lady David Hill OBE & Gillian Hill John & Pam Walker Peter Geary & Debbie Brock DL Angela Hampson Community Foundation Funds MK Community Foundation has funds which David Winks DL & Diane Winks John & Penny Best Peter Kara & Dolores Ochoa Terry & Cleone Goddard Don & Felicity Head John Moffoot MBE, DL & Peter Selvey Terry & Karen Saunders Arts Fund everyone in the community can contribute to. Muriel Moffoot Don & Jill Allison + Peter Waterman Tim & Ruth Stone Community Fund ◊ Julia Upton MBE & Patrick Upton Douglas Campbell OBE & Philip & Alicia Butler Dr Tony Walton Jubilee Sports Fund Janet Campbell Karen Mason Dr Philip Smith MBE & ◊ Val Roche Speak to the Fund Development Team on 01908 690276 Women’s Fund Kevin & Susie Smith Hilary Warburton or email [email protected] to talk Douglass & Norry Welch ◊ Walter Blairman & Melanie Beck Surviving Winter Fund Lawrence & Gail Revill Philip & Vicky Stainsby about your charitable giving. Duke & Duchess of ◊ Victor Koss & Miranda Vogler-Koss

◊ Fund Holder + Founder Member ○ Philanthropy Fellow * Patron

12 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 13 £21,500 donated to Festive Road Providing homes for charities in 2015/16 across Milton Keynes

Festive Road Our vision to provide support beyond grants to local Festive Road is a community arts organisation bringing organisations led to us working in partnership with MK Some groups have been able to communities to life. In 2015/16 the group received Development Corporation in the 1990s. apply for rent subsidies of up to £21,500 to fund two local carnivals, Walking with The Development Corporation chose to gift us their land to help local Giants and Paraffinalia and to fund a staff member charities find homes in our buildings, or to develop their own sites to to help the group develop a marketing strategy to continue their important work. promote their work thanks to the Business Leaders Fund. We have 71 charities, community groups, and community interest or not for profit companies working in our office spaces, buildings, and 75% In March 2016 Festive Road moved into one of our land they have purchased from us. Some of these groups have been industrial units in Kiln Farm on a 75% subsidised rent. able to apply for rent subsidies of up to 75% due to their charitable Simon Tipping, Director at Festive Road said “This is work in the community. a fantastic space for us for running workshops and creating new materials, thank you everyone for helping us spread lots of joy in and around Milton Keynes.”

Gifford Park Middleton Festive Road’s artwork in Kiln Farm

Woolstone Monkston Springfield Park Neath Hill Kents Central Hill Gate The Sri Lankan Muslim Community Foundation MK Peartree Old Farm Greenleys Fishermead Heelands Bridge Park The Sri Lankan Muslim Community Foundation approached Walnut Tree MK Community Foundation trustees in 2007 to purchase a Coffee Hall Loughton Oldbrook plot of land in Fishermead to build a community centre and Leadenhall Islamic centre. Building started in March 2015 and is due to Shenley Brook be completed in March 2017. MK Community Foundation Shenley Furzton Church End Granby provided a £262,500 subsidy, 75% of the residential value Grange End Farm Emerson of the land, enabling the organisation to purchase the land Valley Medbourne at an affordable rate. Westcroft Bletchley Tattenhoe Our plots of land across MK The building is open to all in the community and is planned to include a library and resource centre, community hall, prayer hall, class rooms, gym and crèche to cover the annual costs of running the centre. Bart Gamber, Director of Programmes said “This building will provide a great resource for the local MK Community Foundation community of Fishermead and we look forward to seeing the provided a subsidy of building when it’s completed next year. We appreciate that this emerging community came to us because they wanted to put We have 71 charities, community groups, down roots and for their children to feel a sense of belonging and community interest or not for profit in Milton Keynes. We’re proud to play a part in that.” £262,500 companies working in our office spaces, buildings, and land they have purchased from us at a reduced rate. Is your organisation looking for a home? Contact the team on 01908 690276 to see if we can help.

14 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 15 Leo Marchant and Siobhan Arslan from Acorn Family Law

Our city centre Our small business tenants unit tenants

Emily’s Star team in their new office

Our buildings in “Milton Keynes Community Foundation has Acorn Family Law is a specialist family location for our clients is a huge benefit to us house charities and businesses enabled Emily’s Star to take the next big step, law firm assisting clients in all areas of and them. We conduct a lot of business with supporting local people. to provide a base for our volunteers and our Through the years... 1991 family law. In 2013 Leo and Siobhan Milton Keynes Family Court and having this on Through the years... 2008 families to visit us. Since April we have been our doorstep is a major advantage and helps Emily’s Star provides support to families of extremely busy and seen an additional 15 decided to set up their own practice in keep costs down for our clients. children with life limiting or life threatening volunteers sign up to help us, this has only been our Acorn House building to fill the gap The recent refurbishment of the reception is illnesses, by arranging monthly Stay and Play made possible because of our new office. left by the loss of legal aid. brilliant and provides a professional and smart sessions, annual photoshoots and yearly trips Thank you MK Community Foundation for all Solicitor and Partner Leo Marchant, and first impression for our clients when they out, they also provide specially designed your help and support!” Katie Elmer, Emily’s Star attend our offices. Added to this, we have been Emily’s Gift Neonatal Boxes for premature Chartered Legal Executive and Partner Siobhan said “Being located in the same building well supported by the team at Acorn House. babies. Arslan with other local organisations like Mediation The reception staff are always polite and We were able to offer them a subsidised “Since April we have MK, who we work closely with on behalf of our efficient. They deal with our clients in a helpful, rent for an office with us in Acorn House, been extremely busy clients, has been an advantage. Likewise, being positive and professional manner, which is very Central Milton Keynes, and a grant for office down the corridor from the CAB has been a important to us as a firm. We feel sure that equipment. and seen an additional real bonus and allowed us to provide a wider our location has been a significant factor in service to the community, by providing free our success. Part of our ability to continue to 15 volunteers sign up The Community Foundation team family law clinics. maintain competitive rates is because we are in moves into Acorn House - 1991 Acorn House, which has provided us with not We chose to base ourselves in Acorn House as only well priced accommodation, but a great to help us” it is well situated in the city centre and close space to work from.” to the courts, local shops, bus stops and train 2012 station. Having such a convenient central MK SNAP open their specialist learning centre

MK SNAP purchased Community Foundation Land at Walnut Tree to develop a purpose built facility to support local people with Contact the Venue and Client Team on 01908 200250 to find your next Purchase of Margaret Powell House Talk to the team about how we can help your business as it grows on learning disabilities. office space or email [email protected]. - 2012 01908 200250.

16 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 17 Key statistics from last Keeping up to year’s report: date with MK’s

Vital Signs 2014 Bart Gamber, Director of Programmes 1,250 and author of Vital Signs MK, highlights 2013 what life is like for people living across Milton Keynes. His findings help focus grant making to the areas that need it most, making the most of your donations. Homelessness In 2015 our research showed that MK is doing brilliantly as a local economy, creating jobs 51% Over £60,000 of funding was awarded for projects addressing 1,250 faster than the national average. However, 13% homelessness, inequality and disadvantage in MK. people were recorded as homeless in of MK residents are living in some of the most We awarded £25,000 to YMCA Milton Keynes to help deprived areas of the UK. We’re targeting our residents develop the skills they need to get into work. MK in 2014, compared to 350 in 2013 grants programme to lift local people out of poverty, giving them opportunities to thrive in our community. Unemployment Despite being 22% more enterprising than the national average and IN THIS EDITIONEconomy - Page 3 Disadvantage andEducation Poverty - - Page Page 4 5 having more new business start ups that succeed, employment of Health and Wellbeing - Page 6 Looking Ahead - Page 8 local people has dropped by 8% between 2005 and 2014. In August 2015 we awarded Access Ambassadors £1,284 to attend MK Job Show with an interpreter to ensure that deaf visitors could interact £17,484 with employers attending the jobs fair. IN THIS EDITION Economy - Page 3 Disadvantage and Poverty - Page 4 awarded to projects helping Education - Page 5 Health and Wellbeing - Page 6 Looking Ahead - Page 8 people into work We need more funds for this area- can you help? Speak to the Fund Development Team on 01908 690276

2015 VITAL SIGNS MK Business is booming in MK, but many have been left behind

Health and Wellbeing VITAL SIGNS MK 2015 Business is booming in MK, but many have been left behind

£78,498 was awarded in grants last year for projects improving health and wellbeing. Thanks to your support we’ve been working 27% with Brook Advisory service for the past 19 years providing local young people with sexual health 27% advice. The Brook team are currently based in our city centre fewer diagnoses of sexually transmitted building on Fifth Street, helping infections than the national average young people access support, Bart Gamber, Director of Programmes education and training .

18 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 19 Championing local talent

Since 2010 we’ve awarded bursaries of between £2,000 and £10,000 to 49 talented local individuals to help them follow their passions whilst championing excellence within music, sports, engineering and the arts. This is made possible thanks to our donors supporting our community fund and thanks to the support of our fund holders Maureen Hopkinson, David and Jennifer Adams, the Margaret Powell Foundation Fund and The Gosal Family Fund. Leah Williamson our sports bursary winner is a force to be reckoned with, at the peak of physical fitness as Midfielder for Arsenal Ladies senior club with ambitions to join the England Senior Team. From a family of keen footballers and supporters Leah always wanted to play for Arsenal, and started early attending the FA Centre of Excellence from the age of nine. Leah was named England Women’s Youth Player of the Year in 2014 in her debut international season and won the Women’s Professional Football Associations Young Player of the Year award in 2015. Now in the under 19 squad and having played on the winning team in the FA Cup Women’s Final in May 2016 the future looks bright for Leah. £104,200 has been awarded to 49 individuals in 6 years for sports, engineering, Can you champion a local talent? Speak to the Fund Development musical excellence, and the arts. Team on 01908 690276 to get involved.

Leah Williamson bursary winner

20 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 21 Our corporate supporters last year funded 57 Projects helping 50,884 local people last year. In 2015/16: • 18 training and education programmes were funded • 4 coaches and tutors salaries paid for cricket, African drumming, tennis and sewing classes

In five years the OU has awarded 23 grants helping Why local businesses support 6,338 MK Community Foundation local people

Worktree students learning how to do the perfect hand shake

The Open University joined MK “Feedback from our students and staff strongly “We’re supporting MK Community Foundation Community Foundation as Founder suggest that Worktree’s Career WorkOut because without realising, our family and staff Patrons in 1986, initially pledging has had a dramatic positive impact on student benefit from so many projects the charity MK Community Foundation through the years... aspirations, personal vision and drive. In funds and we want to be part of this. From £500 a year. The OU went on to donate over two decades in education I have not family members visiting local projects to £25,000 on our 25 birthday and in come across a more effective programme for our customers supporting the Community 2011 set up a fund helping young achieving these goals across such a wide range Foundation it makes sense to be involved in people in MK access education and of students for so minimal investment in terms this important community movement.” MK Community Foundation has supported local charities with over entrepreneurial opportunities. of time and money.” Head Teacher, Tony Nelson Claire Sharpe, Daily Clean 24Seven of The Hazeley Academy £20 million in the past 30 years. In 2015 we awarded £5,000 from the Open “We are delighted to be able to support University & Niftylift Funds to Worktree New Supporters MK Community Foundation. As a firm, we are proud of the achievements of MK with its high for their Career WorkOut sessions across In 2015 Daily Clean 24Seven joined us as MK Reader Service collecting a growth, low unemployment and SME friendly secondary schools in MK, helping students corporate members and Rainscourt Family Law SNUGS - The Margaret Powell environment. Membership of MK Community cheque for £2,895 meet local professionals and understand Solicitors became senior corporate members, Grant recipients 1998 Pre-school Learning Alliance Grant Foundation enables us to support a range of recipients 1997 their career options. helping us support more charities in MK MK based charities and gives us confidence by donating to our community fund. These that our contributions are being well spent in partnerships are vital to help us continue our the community.” James Norris, Rainscourt work making Milton Keynes a happy, healthy Family Law Solicitors place to live and work. Talk to the team about how we can help your business give back to the community email [email protected].

22 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 23 Businesses have a Neil Russell and Our Corporate Members Jan Flawn CBE unique role to play in - PJ Care building a successful and thriving community in Milton Keynes. Thank you for all your support.

Patron Members Senior Members Corporate Members + Community Action:MK ◊ centre:mk Bluecube Creative ◊ David Lock Associates Ltd ◊ Coventry Building Society ◊ Citizen Group of Newspapers ◊ Milton Keynes Parks Trust DeVere Venues Daily Clean 24Seven ◊ Niftylift Geoffrey Leaver Solicitors LLP Freestone Creative + ◊ The Open University ◊ Grant Thornton Frosts Garden Centre Ltd PJ Care Hornbeam CPAM Limited Hewitsons LLP Routeco Ltd John Lewis Distribution ◊ Interdirect Limited + ◊ Volkswagen Group UK Ltd Louch Shacklock & Partners LLP Keens Shay Keens MK Mazars Lesley A Arkin, Optometrist Mercer & Hole London House International Limited MK Business Leaders Partnership Ltd Midsummer Breakfast Club Movey Miletree Construction ◊ NHBC Milton Keynes College Rainscourt Family Law Solicitors Onyx Recruitment + Royal Bank of Scotland Reid Photography RSM Richmond House Group Shoosmiths Stuart Turner Architecture and Urban Sunset (UK) Ltd Design Wealth and Tax Management Verve Workspace

Corporate supporters on a Seeing is Believing project visit ◊ Fund Holders + Founder Members

24 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 25 Family Philanthropy

The Wilson Fund has awarded 28 grants helping over 22,000 Niftylift- Giving local local people children the best start in life

Jane and Peter Wilson

Peter and Jane Wilson have supported MK Act offers six 12 week courses each year “We are in the latter stages of The Niftylift Fund works to address says Roger, who involves his family and staff in MK Community Foundation since for women who are survivors of domestic an interesting and wonderful life child poverty in Milton Keynes and is the Community Foundation’s work to ensure 1988 through their company Routeco, violence. The classes aim to restore the managed on behalf of locally grown, they understand the role Niftylift plays in the Through the years... 2004 confidence and self esteem of clients as well as and are delighted to be involved local community. an electrical automation industry better equipping them to keep themselves and in the Community Foundation’s international company Niftylift, distributor. Almost 30 years later their children safe. important work in our community. who produce mobile elevating work Routeco still support the Community platforms. Last year Niftylift gave “I’m so grateful to the Community Foundation The charity has travelled so far since Foundation as senior corporate for providing a crèche. If I hadn’t attended this its inception and has been blessed The Fund supports projects helping patrons, donating £5,000 per year. course I wouldn’t have met my group and have and so fortunate to have had the disadvantaged children and young people in In 2010 as Peter prepared to step down from had the strength to take my abuser to court. our community and provides opportunities for £12,000 If there wasn’t a crèche I wouldn’t have experience and knowledge of so vulnerable young people to give them the best his responsibilities at Routeco, to take up a to local charities new challenge as chairman of the building been able to attend. I feel many like minded people supporting possible start in life. so strong now.” including over and property co. A W James Limited, he and its work. We hope that our fund Roger Bowden, Chairman and Founder of his wife Jane set up The Wilson Family Fund. and the support the Community Niftylift started the company’s relationship Their fund supports projects that have a lasting Foundation receives from the wider with the Community Foundation in 1994 as effect on communities in Milton Keynes and members initially donating £1,500 a year. In £6,000 today has awarded 28 grants helping over community continues to help local 2008 Roger set up the Niftylift Fund which has 22,000 local people. people in need.” now awarded grants to 30 projects. to support educational resources and training for disadvantaged The Wilson Fund supported MK Act with Peter Wilson “Working with the Community Foundation young people, benefiting over £1,500 to provide a crèche facility for women enables us to contribute to the local Eaton Mill Parent and Toddler Group attending courses to help them overcome community in a focused and effective way” 3,500 people across MK. domestic violence.

£2,482 was awarded to help set up the Eaton Mill Parent and Toddler group in 2004. Are you are interested in setting up a Fund to make a long term positive change in your community? Talk to the team about how we can help your business get involved in the Call the Fund Development team on 01908 690276 or email [email protected]. local community on 01908 200250.

26 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 27 Jo Bowerman, Fossil UK

Metro Bank Team David Lock Associates

Over 100 employees from local businesses helped us raise money on #GivingTuesday to help people in MK struggling to keep warm and safe during winter. On the day over Over £8,000 was raised on the day thanks to our fearless teams from Interdirect, Countrywide, Fossil, Jeanius Consulting, MK College, EMW Law, PJ Care, Metro Bank and Revolucion de Cuba and financial event sponsorship from Natwest. £8,000 We’re also thrilled that David Lock Associates raised over £600 in one day and Geoffrey Leaver welcomed us at their lunch club with proceeds was raised Working with the Community going towards our Surviving Winter fund.

Winter Night Shelter beneficiary in long term accommodation

Since 2012 we’ve been working with This winter you helped the Winter Night “My life has turned our supporters and local organisations Shelter purchase 60 new mattresses to ensure to help people in our community that homeless guests get a good night’s sleep. round completely. I have struggling to make it through the One beneficiary said “My life has turned round a roof over my head, winter months. completely. I have a roof over my head, food and warmth –and it’s all thanks to the shelter. food and warmth –and With your support we’ve helped the Winter The council wouldn’t do anything all the time Night Shelter in the past three years. Since I was sleeping rough but the shelter staff gave it’s all thanks to the opening in 2012 the organisation has helped me the first month’s rent and deposit for my 165 guests move into settled, long term own flat. It was amazing.” shelter.” accommodation.

#GivingTuesday challengers

28 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 29 In 5 years we’ve helped over 110 groups raise over Our role in the community involves helping local charities become self sustaining. Over 100 local charities have raised over £1 million since 2011 on localgiving.org thanks to our Programmes Team £1 million helping them get online. online In March 2016 to celebrate our 30th birthday we ran the £30,000 Mad March Match thanks to support from the Margaret Powell Foundation and an anonymous funder. Donations made to groups on Localgiving were doubled, raising £60,000 for local causes.

International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day celebration at MK Rose

On 8th March we celebrated International Women’s Day at MK Rose and Bletchley Park. We were joined by code breaker Ruth Bourne, who celebrated her 90th birthday this year, and kindly shared insights into her time decoding German messages during WW2. MK Rowing Club Milton Keynes Rowing Club took part in our Mad March Match, raising £2,000 for their boat storage unit. “This will enable us to build on our fleet of boats which will in turn attract more members of the local 3,370 community to our club of all abilities.” women were supported Louise Rivett, MK Rowing Club by our Women’s Fund last year.

Is your group looking to raise funds online? Contact the Programmes Team on 01908 690276 or email [email protected] to get online today! Julia Upton and Ruth Borne Codebreaker

30 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 31 Trusting the Community Foundation with your Charity - The Gift that Keeps on Giving

“We are sad the festival will no longer take place, but are thrilled that there

will be an ongoing legacy that will Great Linford Waterside Festival help other groups make use of the In 2015 MK Community Foundation and the Great funds we have raised over the years.” Linford Waterside Festival announced the creation of the Great Linford Waterside Festival Fund. Deborah Cooper, The Festival’s trustees transferred the organisation’s Chair of the Great Linford Waterside Festival Trustees assets to MK Community Foundation to help local people advance their education in the arts and access recreation and leisure activities. Great Linford Waterside Festival performance Managing a charity long term can be a challenge for its trustees and volunteers, The Charity Commission welcomes and supports this initiative and encourages all charities to ask themselves whether they with large responsibilities often falling on a Whether your organisation is big or small MK Community Foundation can help few dedicated volunteers in their spare time. should work with Community Foundations as an alternative to continuing, particularly if they agree with one or more of the you through difficult situations to make the most of your organisation’s remaining The Charity Commission acknowledges that following statements: Community Foundations have a reputation for the income by helping other local groups thrive, as the Trefoil Guild Handbell Ringers effective management of charitable funds in order to • We find it difficult to identify beneficiaries maximise their impact at a local level. did, ensuring that your gift to the community keeps on giving. • We cannot spend the income of the charity The Charity Commission and Community •  We find ourselves providing money to the same people or Foundations across the UK have worked closely groups every year in recent years to ensure that trustees seeking to Trefoil Guild Handbell Ringers revitalise moribund (dormant) or ineffective trust •  We find it difficult to attract trustees “Back in 2000 MK Community Foundation gave a funds (and who are looking for an effective way of •  We would like to be involved in how the money is spent generous grant to Milton Keynes Trefoil Ringers carrying on their good work in future years) can but we do not want the legal responsibility of being a to purchase a set of handbells. release their funds to a Community Foundation as trustee part of their appraisal of options. These bells have been well used giving much •  The work of administering the charity and its investment pleasure not only to our ringers, but to the many is becoming onerous or disproportionate to the level of people we were able to entertain over the years. funding The remaining members of our teams felt that •  We wish that we knew more about local issues and it would be a nice gesture to send our remaining opportunities and who else was funding what funds to Milton Keynes Community Foundation to help others in the way we were helped 15 years ago.”

Mary Du Puy - Chairman of the Milton Keynes Trefoil Guild

32 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 33 Our Vice Presidents

Nicholas Mann Nicholas Mann, Vice President started supporting MK Community Foundation in 2000 as a Senior Corporate Member through his home grown business Interdirect, a well known digital, PR and marketing agency. Nicholas and his team helped MK Community Foundation join the digital age, managing their websites between 2000 and 2014. In 2008 Nicholas joined the Community Foundation’s Honorary Structure, to help promote the work of the charity amongst the local business community and the Interdirect Fund was set up in 2014 to benefit the whole community, including projects developing ICT and marketing activities of local organisations. Nicholas Mann

Debbie Brock DL Debbie and her husband Peter became members of MK Community Foundation in 2010 during Debbie’s time as Mayor of Milton Keynes. In 2011 Debbie joined MK Community Foundation as a Vice President having experienced the charity’s work during her time in office. Debbie and her family live in the village of near Olney and Debbie represents the Community Foundation at many local events funded by the Community Foundation. Our Honorary Structure Seven grants were awarded in Debbie’s local area last year supporting 996 beneficiaries. Debbie and Frankie Brock

Alexander Boswell DL, Vice Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire Anouar Kassim MBE Anouar Kassim MBE and his wife Marayam, became members of MK Community Foundation in 2010. Due to his important role as Director of MK Islamic Arts, President Heritage and Culture Organisation Anouar was invited to become a Vice President of the Community Foundation. The group has received support since 2007 enabling them to share Islamic arts and culture with the wider community, helping address Alexander Boswell, DL, Vice Lord projects which have the biggest impact on “Without the work race and religious hate crimes and promoting community cohesion within the wider Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire a community. I particularly remember my community. first visit as President to the YMCA Milton of the Community In 2008 following his year as High Sheriff of Keynes. I was awe-struck by the way the Buckinghamshire, Alexander became the first entire place radiated positivity despite the Foundation, small, local, Anouar Kassim MBE President of MK Community Foundation, desperate circumstances of many of its promoting our work across Milton Keynes. occupants. Homelessness is a growing local grassroots projects just problem and the YMCA Milton Keynes is an Alexander said “MK Community Foundation wouldn’t be able to get Francesca Skelton DL inspiring example of what can be done to help sprinkles star dust across the community, people in need. I’m proud that MK Community Francesca joined MK Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees in 1995 and helping local charities perform at their best, lift-off.” Foundation has been able to help in this work.” served as Chair from 2003-2006. In 2015 Francesca became High Sheriff of making positive changes to local lives. Without Buckinghamshire, representing the county, assisting with Royal visits and supporting the work of the Community Foundation, the Judiciary, the Police and other law enforcement agencies, the emergency small, local, grassroots projects just wouldn’t services, local authorities, charities and faith groups. During this year Francesca was be able to get lift-off. It’s often these local also an honorary Vice Preident of MK Community Foundation. Francesca and her husband John created the Skelton Family Fund in 2007 to support projects that have a lasting effect on the communities of MK. The Skelton Fund has awarded grants helping 3,256 local people in the past 2 years. Francesca Skelton DL

34 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 35 Our staff Thank you for making Milton Keynes a happy, healthy place to live, work and raise a family for 30 years. We look forward to sharing your generous support with the community for many years to come!

Lasting Legacies for children in Milton Keynes

Edward Hurley 1924 - 2006 MK Community Foundation team

Edward Hurley from Bletchley had a “The professionalism of the process you have Julia Upton MBE Rebecca Myrie Kelly Wilson Claire Edoh strong belief that children need to be at the Community Foundation gives me utter Chief Executive Fund Development Manager Venue and Client Team Leader Venue and Client Coordinator given the best start in their early years confidence that every grant the team puts Through the years... 2011 Laura Keen Sarah Surridge Kaymarie Smith Dawn Francis forward meets the criteria we agreed on. Director of Finance Marketing and Communications Programmes Officer Venue and Client Coordinator to make the most of their lives. It’s a mark of my confidence in the team Jennifer Walker Manager Natalie Jordan Ellen Meredith When his wife and stepson passed away that I’ve never rejected a recommendation Director of Development Hannah Meara Programmes Officer Venue and Client Coordinator before he did, Edward spoke to his neighbour I’ve received, it’s a very thorough process. Vanessa Bradley Marketing and Communications Julia Shepherd Julie Howes Peter Kara about wishing to donate a part of The fund keeps Ted’s memory alive and he Director of Client Facilities Manager (maternity cover) Donor Services and Marketing Venue and Client Receptionist his estate to a local charity. As a trustee of MK would be happy that the fund supports the Bart Gamber Titi Aruofor Assistant Community Foundation, Peter suggested the cause he cared about.” Peter Kara, Fund Holder Director of Programmes Financial Controller Anne Booth Community Foundation as a possible recipient of the Edward Hurley Memorial Fund. Charlotte Layton Emma Wilkinson Operations Assistant because of the grants they give to a wide Programmes Manager Executive Assistant range of community groups and organisations. Edward Hurley 1924 - 2006 Since his death in 2008 Edward’s fund has supported 26 projects helping 7,342 local Trustees Keith Silverthorne Vice Presidents Community people and the fund is still growing! As the Edward’s fund has supported Melanie Beck Representatives donor advisor of Edward’s fund, Peter stays 26 projects and helped Lawrence Revill, Chair MK Anouar Kassim MBE Michael Murray DL involved with Edward’s gift with the option to Community Foundation Anthony Priest Abdirahman Abdillahin accept or refuse the grant recommendations Peter Kara, Chair MK Richard Brown Brenda Ingram Allison Carlton Community Properties made to him by the fund development team. Roger Kitchen Christopher Phillips Caroline Odjidja Steve Harris, Chair Finance Shaun Lee 7,342 Rainbow Park, Beanhill Darren Gray Dennis Woolford Committee Stephen Norrish MBE local people Peter Selvey, Honorary Treasurer Debbie Brock DL Ellie Walsh High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire Gamiel Yafai Ben Stoneman President Ian Revell Beanhill Action Group received Fola Komolafe MBE, DL Lady Tudor-Price Alexander Boswell DL, Malcolm Brighton OBE, DL Jeanette Hyde £5,000 towards the development Francesca Skelton DL Vice Lord Lieutenant of of a children’s play park. Jill Heaton Buckinghamshire Mayor of Milton Keynes John Marshall Speak to the Fund Development team about leaving a gift in your Nicholas Mann Pauline Wallis will to Milton Keynes, helping local people today and in the future. John Moffoot MBE, DL Judith Hooper Robert Ruck-Keene Sola Ewedemi Call 01908 690276. Sir Evelyn de Rothschild Victoria Mayes

36 | MK Community Foundation Annual Review 2015/16 | 37 WAYS TO GIVE ONLINE AT MKCOMMUNITYFOUNDATION.CO.UK OVER THE PHONE ON 01908 690276 VIA CHEQUE TO ‘MK COMMUNITY FOUNDATION’

Our Network MK Community Foundation is a member of UK Community Foundations, Connecting and growing the membership organisation for Community Foundations that work our community for 30 years across the UK to raise then distribute money directly to local causes. Last year, nationally, Community Foundations made over 20,000 MK Community Foundation grants, distributing over £70 million to local causes. Each Community Acorn House, 381 Midsummer Boulevard, Foundation is independent and operates to ensure any form of Central Milton Keynes, MK9 3HP philanthropy, whether from an individual or an organisation, is effective and brings greatest benefit to those in need in their local communities. Tel: 01908 690276 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mkcommunityfoundation.co.uk

mkcommunityfoundation @MKComFoundation

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