ON Saturday, September 10 Devon Community Foundation celebrated 20 years of helping local communities at an event held in Exeter Cathedral, kindly supported by CCLA and Quilter Cheviot.

More than 300 guests were entertained with performances from Isca Wheelchair Dancers who offer people with disabilities the opportunity to dance and socialise in Exeter; Street Factory a street dance community project working with vulnerable and disadvantaged people in Plymouth and Stannary Brass Band from Tavistock who encourage young people to develop their skills and take part in musical activities.   

Supporters through the years took to the stage to talk about their love for Devon, and the essential role the Foundation plays in supporting local community projects to build vibrant and caring places to live and work.

Steve Hindley, Executive Chairman of the Midas Group and Chairman of Devon Community Foundation said: “The astounding work that is done by organisations receiving grants from us is possible only through the donations and actions of local people. The Foundation now has more than 50 different funds and an endowment of £6.1 million thanks to their generosity.

“Our support totals £10,613,348 to 3,618 community projects across Devon, helping to change the lives of nearly 900,000 people for the better. It is so important that the people of Devon keep giving locally.”

A selection of charities and community groups who benefitted from funding from the Foundation spoke about the impact the support has meant.

Balloons, a children’s bereavement charity based in Exeter, received £10,000 in 2006 to help get them started and see what the need was locally. Ten years later and the need is greater than ever and the Foundation continues to offer vital funds.

Sara Bennett Chief Executive of Balloons said: “DCF funded our pilot back in 2006, and has continued to be an important partner ever since. We stand next to children when they are at their most vulnerable, and DCF in turn stands next to us.

“Together we are stronger, providing vital support when children need it most. We are proud to do our work and proud to count DCF as a friend.”

The celebration was just the start of the Foundation’s 20th birthday, a further 19 events are planned throughout the year including an event at Killerton House discussing the role that philanthropy has played in the past, three continuing professional development seminars for professional advisors, a young people and philanthropy event and finally the Foundation’s much loved Volunteer of the Year Awards in September 2017. 

Anyone interested in finding out more about Devon Community Foundation or the events planned for the upcoming year is invited to get in touch with Laura on telephone 01884 235887 or email: [email protected] .