The first national Arts in Health Conference was an inspiring example of a proactive, preventative approach to addressing social problems. Charity ‘Arts Enterprise with a Social Purpose’ (Aesop) showcased a series of pioneering arts projects that had proven benefits to people with health difficulties.
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.
OCF was delighted to attend the grand opening of the social enterprise cafe in Witney, which was unveiled during a surprise visit from the Prime Minister. The opening is the latest chapter of a success story that has seen OCF support Yellow Submarine from the very start.
A group of enthusiastic school children took part in an interactive workshop with author-illustrator Emily Gravett as part of the annual Maggie’s Day event at The Story Museum on Thursday. The day is a chance for Maggie Evans’ family and friends to remember her and to celebrate her love of books and stories.
Funds raised during the Surviving Winter appeal in Oxfordshire total just over £12,000, and have been used to support a variety of community groups across the county who are expert in meeting the needs of elderly and vulnerable people.
Oxfordshire Community Foundation has partnered with national charity Comic Relief to provide £10,000 in grant funding to 13 different groups across the county that provide vital support to all sorts of vulnerable people.
OCF has awarded a large grant to Trax, an Oxford-based charity that provides training opportunities and counselling to disadvantaged and disengaged young people. The group, which specialises in bike refurbishment, is using the grant to create a social enterprise model that will allow them to be self-sufficient.
The Future-Building Fund takes a ground-breaking approach to supporting the local charitable sector, providing large grants to help ambitious charities significantly scale up their operation. The fund has recently awarded grants to Trax and Yellow Submarine, with more in the pipeline.
Annual festival Folk Weekend: Oxford will be held on 17th-19th April 2015, and holds events throughout the city centre. This year, funding from OCF will help them include a Makaton project in the event, aimed at people with communication difficulties.
Steeple Aston’s seniors group The Valentine Club has received a metaphorical red rose from OCF, as they are awarded a £1,000 grant from the Surviving Winter appeal to help them share friendship and activities for rural over-60s.