This is the legal, technical and governance engine of the community foundation. As stewards of charitable capital and as a trusted fiduciary, Australian Communities Foundation has strong governance framework and systems.
Within this legal Trust Fund structure, Australian Communities Foundation offers donors a range of options and products, for donors who are starting their philanthropic journey, for those who want to establish large funds in perpetuity, and everything in between.
Once a donor has established the fund that best suits them, Australian Communities Foundation works with them to develop and implement their interests and giving programs, to make sure the donors achieve their goals and objectives as well as make impactful, effective grants.
Australian Communities Foundation has built a body of knowledge and expertise around community issues and needs, as well as a wide ranging network of community organisations and leaders.
Australian Communities Foundation has a broad and thorough understanding of community: from the arts, to environment, to welfare, health and disability, to Indigenous issues, education and to trends in disadvantage and social change. This expertise, advice and research allows grants to be directed where need is greatest and for maximum impact.
Australian Communities Foundation uses this knowledge and its extensive networks to provide personal, tailored research and grant advice to meet a donor’s brief and to source projects and funding opportunities in their areas of interest. We also provide grant opportunities from requests received directly from community organisations seeking funding for specific programs and projects.
Australian Communities Foundation's due diligence ensures all grants are fully compliant and meet relevant regulations and standards. It is the in-depth knowledge of community needs and opportunities that supports effective and rewarding philanthropy.
Australian Communities Foundation brings together people who care about their communities. We partner with our donors to build permanent endowments and other funds, from which to support community projects, and we provide leadership on issues of broad community concern.
Australian Communities Foundation runs a number of different education and information events and activities for donors to engage and learn about community, and to develop their philanthropy and grantmaking skills and interests.
Donors enjoy the collaboration, leveraging their giving with others, meeting those with similar interests and creating effective and rewarding networks. Where requested, Australian Communities Foundation also helps donors form a relationship with community organisations beyond the grantmaking, to include volunteering and other pro-bono contributions.
It is up to the donor to determine how involved they want to be, and the flexible approach ensures that a donor can vary their approach and degree of involvement to suit their circumstances and interests.