1,000 Celebrate 20 Years of Making a Difference with Norfolk Community Foundation
Norfolk came together to celebrate £50 million invested in local community action
More than 1,000 people joined us at the Norfolk Showground for Illuminate Norfolk, a landmark event celebrating 20 years of championing local charities. The event was a resounding success, shining a light on the extraordinary impact of grassroots organisations and the power of community giving.
Throughout the day, attendees explored interactive exhibits and live demonstrations that brought to life the incredible work of local charities. From street dance workshops to green energy initiatives, every moment of the event highlighted the dedication and innovation that drives real change in Norfolk.
Since our founding in 2005, we have directed more than £50 million into local projects tackling food insecurity, childhood inequality, mental health, and environmental challenges. Yet, with 85% of charitable donations in the UK going to large national organisations, small charities often struggle to survive—despite being the first to step up in times of crisis. Our mission remains clear: to bridge this gap and ensure that support reaches the organisations and communities that need it most.
Our Patron, Pippa Dannatt, Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk, reflected on our impact over the past two decades:
“I am immensely proud to serve as Patron of the Norfolk Community Foundation, an organisation that for 20 years has quietly enabled this essential work. It has provided support where it is most needed, channelled funding into grassroots projects, and brought people together to drive real and lasting change. Its presence in our county gently guides us all to do the right thing—to look out for one another and to invest in the future of our communities.”
Our Chief Executive, Claire Mackintosh MBE, reinforced the importance of Illuminate Norfolk as a call to action:
“Illuminate Norfolk isn’t just a celebration of what we’ve achieved—it’s a reminder that to secure a bright future for Norfolk, we need to work together. Grassroots charities are the backbone of our communities, stepping up in times of crisis. With the continued support of local businesses, donors, and volunteers, we can ensure they thrive for the next 20 years and beyond.”
We were delighted to welcome members of our Norfolk 100, individuals who are the driving force behind our Love Norfolk programme, providing vital funding for local charities. We also welcomed the many individuals, trusts and donors we have worked with over the years to share with them the difference they have made and will continue to make in our county. Representatives from dozens local businesses also joined us, from accountants and solicitors to web designers and architects – all of whom have helped Norfolk shine brighter by donating or offering their time to local charities through Good for Good.
As we look ahead, our message remains clear: Together, Norfolk shines brighter.
Illuminate Norfolk was made possible with the support of sponsors, including Apex Car & Van Hire, Barratt & Cooke, Huxley Events, Jamieson Property Search, Jarrolds, Mills & Reeve Solicitors, Notcutts Norwich, Osiris IT, Rebecca Osborne Studios Ltd, Richard Jarmy Photography, Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association, Stephenson Smart Accountants and Business Advisors, The Big Chiller Company and Victoria Marquees.
