OCF’s grant-making in 2014-15 showed solid support for groups that enable people with disabilities to take a fuller part in their community, representing 34% of grants made. Our grant-making also tells the story of our donor-advised funds.
Figures from OCF’s annual accounts, which reveal a 400% overall increase in grant-making since the previous year, are evidence that the community foundation continues to provide a vital lifeline to the smaller local community groups. The full list of grants awarded, which can be found here, shows a diverse mix of causes supported, with health and wellbeing taking a particular prominence. Projects underpinning better life skills and education, and initiatives that built community cohesion were also amongst the most successful when it came to accessing OCF funding:
When considered in terms of the value of the grants made, a slightly different picture is presented. This view tells the story of our donor-advised funds, with one donor in particular is making a significant investment into projects that focus on sustainability for the benefit of our earth, and its people, animals and environment.
Some examples of grants made within each theme are:
- Community cohesion and social capital
Our Community Time Bank used a grant of £1,500 to run activities that encourage connections, confidence and skills within a neighbourhood swapping network - Life skills, education and employability
Nomad Youth Project used a grant of £2,000 to help disadvantaged young adults make better choices about their education, health, training, employment, finances, independence, recreation and relationships - Social justice and poverty alleviation
Blackbird Leys Neighbourhood Support Scheme received a large grant from the Future-Building Fund to fund staff costs and space modifications to make their Agnes Smith Advice Centre fit for purpose - Arts, culture and heritage
The Story Museum used their grant from the Maggie Evans Fund to create the annual Maggie’s Day celebration, giving school children from deprived areas the chance to take part in an illustration and storytelling workshop with a famous author - Physical and mental health and wellbeing
Funds raised by named fund Legacy for a Legend were used to fund seven new life-saving defibrillators across rural communities in West Oxfordshire - Environment and feasibility research
Resource Futures received support from the Fund for Sankalpa to champion the Good Food Oxford initiative – a network working towards a fair, healthy, ethical and sustainable food system
To discover more about grants we have made and funds we manage, have a look at our case studies