Norfolk Community Foundation Marks 20 Years of Championing Overlooked Charities
In the UK, 85% of charitable donations go to large, well-known organisations, leaving small, local charities struggling to survive, a recent report from the Centre for Social Justice reveals.
Yet, these grassroots groups are often the first to respond to crises, providing essential services in their communities. For the past 20 years, Norfolk Community Foundation has been working to change that—directing funds, resources, and support where they’re needed most.
To mark this milestone, the Foundation is launching Illuminate Norfolk, a special event at Norfolk Showground on 12th March 2025. More than just a celebration, Illuminate will showcase the incredible impact local giving has had on local charities and call on the Norfolk community to continue collaborating for a brighter future.
Founded in 2005, Norfolk Community Foundation has dedicated two decades to empowering grassroots organisations across the county.
Claire Mackintosh MBE, Chief Executive of the Foundation, reflects on this journey:
“In 2005, our founders Rt Rev Graham James and Sir Richard Jewson saw that small, local charities were being overlooked. Even today, the statistics prove how vital our work remains, with the majority of donations still going to national organisations. But when crises hit—whether the pandemic or the ongoing cost-of-living crisis—it’s grassroots charities that step up first. We are proud to have been championing and supporting the work of these ‘hidden gems’ for 20 years, with the continued support of motivated individuals, inspiring businesses and diverse statutory partners. Illuminate Norfolk won’t just be a look back at what we’ve achieved together—it’s a call to action for the future.”
Illuminate Norfolk will be a vibrant showcase of community-driven innovation and impact. From street dance workshops to barista training, green energy projects to community supermarkets, visitors will experience first hand the life-changing work of local charities. Sponsors include Barratt & Cooke, Huxley Events, Jamieson Property Search, Jarrolds, Mills & Reeve Solicitors, Osiris IT, Rebecca Osborne Studios Ltd, Richard Jarmy Photography, Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association and Stephenson Smart Accountants
Over the past two decades, the Foundation has directed more than £50 million into local projects tackling hunger, childhood inequality, mental health, and environmental challenges. With the mantra “Together, Norfolk shines brighter,” the Foundation has built a legacy of collaboration, uniting local businesses, donors, and volunteers to strengthen communities from the ground up.
Illuminate is kindly sponsored by local businesses. Find out more here.
