Southland Foundation Launched to Foster Community Giving and Lasting Change
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Southland Foundation was officially launched this evening in Invercargill, with Sir Stephen Tindall speaking at the event. Sir Stephen shared his support for Community Foundations Aotearoa New Zealand and his philanthropic journey. Reflecting on his involvement, he remarked, “Philanthropy is not just about giving money; it’s about creating meaningful, lasting impact in the communities we serve. Community foundations play a pivotal role in connecting resources with local needs, and I am honoured to stand alongside the Southland Foundation in their mission to drive long-term positive change.”
Southland Foundation is a local, independent community foundation focused on fostering philanthropy and driving positive change within the region. Joining a network of 18 community foundations across New Zealand, Southland Foundation will serve as a vehicle for residents to give back to their community, supporting charities and causes they are passionate about while ensuring a legacy of support for future generations.
“We believe in the power of perpetual giving – giving in a way that not only reflects individual passions and values but also ensures sustainable support for our Southland community, forever,” said Kathryn Ball, Southland Foundation Chair. “By harnessing the collective generosity of our community, we are laying the foundation for a brighter, more resilient future for all Southlanders.”
Through the perpetual giving model, donors can create a lasting impact by supporting causes they care deeply about, whether it is youth, education, health, community, environment, or specific charitable organisations. By pooling resources and expertise, Southland Foundation maximises the effectiveness of charitable giving, ensuring that the benefits reverberate throughout the community for generations to come.
“We are excited to embark on this journey of providing a simple and effective way to give back to our local community, and we invite all Southlanders to join us in shaping the future of our region,” added Sarah Hannan, Southland Foundation Chief Executive. “Together, we can create a legacy of generosity and transformation that will enrich the lives of present and future generations.”
Over the coming months, Southland Foundation will actively engage with communities across the region to raise awareness about the myriad opportunities for giving and the transformative impact it can have. It works for everyday people because you don’t have to be wealthy to have an impact; there are countless ways for Southlanders to contribute to the collective well-being of the region.
In support of the foundation, SBS Bank has announced a $5 million interest-free loan to fuel the foundation’s establishment and extend its reach into the heart of the community. With a legacy deeply rooted in Southland for 155 years, SBS Bank’s commitment to community well-being aligns seamlessly with the foundation’s vision.
“We are immensely grateful for the foresight and generosity of SBS Bank in championing our mission to build a strong community foundation here in Southland. Their commitment to investing in our community’s future will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy of positive change,” expressed Kathryn Ball.
Mark McLean, CEO of SBS Bank, added, “At SBS Bank, we believe in the power of taking a long-term view and investing in the well-being of our communities. Southland has been SBS Bank’s home for the past 155 years and will continue to be into the future. The Southland Foundation shares our commitment to building resilient communities that thrive not just today, but well into the future. We are proud to stand alongside the foundation in this endeavour and to contribute to its growth and success.”
Southland Foundation believes that together, we can achieve far more than any one individual or organisation. By pooling resources and amplifying our impact, we have the power to create meaningful change on a larger scale, ensuring a prosperous future for Southland.