Community
Aiming to strengthen philanthropic efforts, the Invercargill Licensing Trust, ILT Foundation and Community Trust South have formalised their commitment to collaborate.
The three funders have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish general framework for co-operation.
ILT chairman and ILT Foundation president Alan Dennis said the MOU would ensure best outcomes continued to be achieved for the community.
“Ultimately the document establishes the guiding principles as we continue working together with both mutual respect and a desire to co-operate on significant community projects for the benefit of our community,” he said.
With an initial duration of two years, the MOU outlines key areas of collaboration, including the sharing of knowledge and exchange of information to enhance philanthropic efforts and impact, joint engagement with shared stakeholders and the opportunity to explore joint programmes or initiatives.
“It’s moving away from what could have been viewed as a silo approach to a more collaborative one,” Dennis said.
“Absolutely we will keep making independent grant decisions and developing our own initiatives, but this encourages us to meet regularly at both governance and management level and that can only enhance decision-making for the city.
“We understand the differences between our organisations but we also have a common goal to make Invercargill and Southland the most vibrant place to live, work and play.”
Community Trust South general manager Jackie Flutey said the funders already had a strong affiliation.
“While we have already been working closely together, this MOU formalises the relationship and provides a platform to continue working in partnership to ensure improved outcomes for our community,” she said.
Chair Margot Hishon said community organisations seeking funding for substantial projects would benefit from the renewed focus on open discussion and transparency.
“If we want to be able to maximise our impact it is vital that we can all work collectively,” she said.