By Nathan Gamester
At the CSJ Foundation, we are proud of the successes we have achieved in supporting small charities across the UK. As we look towards the future, our vision is to further expand our impact and create a lasting positive change in society. With a focus on building on our achievements, we have outlined key initiatives that will shape the future of CSJF. Through the establishment of regional offices, increased policy influence, philanthropic support, and the celebration of outstanding charities, we aim to enhance the infrastructure for small charities, amplify their voices, and contribute to their growth and recognition.
Establishing Regional Offices
We recognise the importance of providing localised support and guidance to small charities. To strengthen the infrastructure for these organisations, we plan to establish more regional offices across the country. These offices will function as hubs for connecting with local charities, understanding their unique challenges, and offering tailored assistance. By increasing our presence on a regional level, we can ensure that charities receive the necessary support to thrive and make a meaningful impact within their communities.
Policy Informed by Frontline Voices
One of our core principles at the Foundation is to advocate for change through evidence-based policy making. To ensure that the policies we advocate for are reflective of the realities faced by small charities, we are committed to amplifying frontline voices. We will actively engage with charities, volunteers, and service users, encouraging them to share their experiences and insights. By incorporating their perspectives into our policy initiatives, we can drive meaningful reforms and address the systemic challenges faced by small charities more effectively.
Directing Philanthropy to the Best Small Charities
We are thrilled to announce that we have recently surpassed the milestone of £1 million in funds directed towards small charities. It is a tremendous honour to contribute to grassroots community groups across the UK. Over the past 18 months, we have channelled 78 individual donations to 55 small, frontline charities. The average donation size amounted to £13,500.
Philanthropic support plays a crucial role in enabling small charities to deliver their vital services. We aim to connect philanthropists with the most impactful and deserving small charities across the UK. Through our rigorous selection process and thorough evaluation, we will identify and showcase charities that demonstrate outstanding performance and potential. By directing philanthropic funding to these organisations, we can maximise the positive impact on communities and help these charities reach their full potential.
Celebrating Charities through an Annual Awards Programme
Small charities often work tirelessly behind the scenes, making a significant difference in people’s lives. To recognise and celebrate their invaluable contributions, we will continue to organise our annual CSJ awards programme. This initiative will shine a spotlight on exceptional charities, highlighting their achievements, innovative approaches, and dedication to their causes. By providing a platform for recognition, we can inspire other organisations, foster collaboration, and elevate the visibility of the invaluable work being done by small charities throughout the UK.
Though these initiatives, CSJF aims to empower small charities, amplify their voices, and contribute to their long-term success. Together, we can create a brighter future where small charities thrive, making a significant positive impact on society.