Southland Foundation proudly announces a significant milestone, having invested close to $500,000 and established five endowment funds in just three months since its launch. This rapid progress underscores the foundation’s commitment to driving long term positive change in the region and addressing community needs, and the generosity of Southlanders.
In addition to the establishment of these funds, the foundation is excited to share that individuals have already made the decision to include the Southland Foundation in their wills, directing support to causes that resonate deeply with them.
September is Wills Month, a time when many New Zealanders consider how they can contribute to their communities through their estates. Over $1.3 billion has been gifted by Kiwis in their wills to support their communities across the Community Foundations of Aotearoa New Zealand network.
Arron Perriam, Executive Director of Community Foundations of Aotearoa New Zealand, notes that the organisation’s 18 members collectively manage $260 million in invested funds received from bequests, with an anticipated pipeline of many hundreds of bequests, adding up to an additional $1 billion. "Increasingly, Kiwis are of the view that the Government can’t, or likely won’t, solve all the challenges we face in this country; we all have felt this acutely in the wake of weather events, increased costs of living, and the pandemic in recent years," Perriam says.
"The power of communities to build their own future resilience and care for their people and environment resides somewhat with the people themselves. What we’re seeing is a growing deep-rooted desire for Kiwis to leave their legacy locally, and that’s where the local community foundation provides the essential infrastructure to manage legacy gifts, to give back to communities for the long term."
Southland Foundation is thrilled to introduce five new funds established through the generosity of today’s donors. Sarah Hannan, CEO of the Southland Foundation, shares, “We are thrilled with the interest and early support for using the Southland Foundation as a trusted vehicle for supporting the local community. These five new funds reflect the desire of our donors to see the immediate impact of their giving and drive positive change right here in Southland.”
Southland Impact Fund The Southland Impact Fund, a regional initiative aimed at fostering positive change throughout the Southland region, has been established with a generous donation from a local trust. This fund will support a variety of community-driven projects and initiatives, maximising its impact through strategic investments.
Fiordland Regional Fund Local residents Neil and Jocelyn Hodges have initiated the Fiordland Regional Fund, dedicated to supporting causes important to the Fiordland community. As this contestable fund grows, it will provide critical support to local projects and initiatives, reflecting the commitment of its founders to the region they call home.
Hawthorndale Care Village Fund In memory of his late wife Helen, donor Jim Hannan has established the Hawthorndale Care Village Fund. This fund will support the new Hawthorndale Care Village, set to open in 2025, and is dedicated
to advancing innovative approaches in dementia and aged care. Jim Hannan’s commitment aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by dementia through this groundbreaking facility.
Neil & Jocelyn Hodges Fund The Neil & Jocelyn Hodges Fund has been created to support various causes in Fiordland that hold special significance for Neil and Jocelyn. This fund represents their gratitude towards the community that has supported them throughout their 48 years of business in the area.
Southland Literacy Fund Established by a Southland couple, the Southland Literacy Fund is focused on supporting young people in need during their formative education years. This fund aims to enhance educational opportunities and support literacy development for Southland’s youth.
The Southland Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to all donors and supporters who have contributed to these early milestones. As the foundation continues to grow, it remains committed to fostering community-driven change and supporting initiatives that make a lasting impact across the region.
