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10 Essex Community Foundation Annual Review 2025New Funds this yearThere are different ways you can start giving through us. The stories behind our funds are as different as the donors themselves. This year, we have set up funds on behalf of families, businesses, public agencies and received several trust transfers. We have also welcomed people who are giving regularly to grow their charitable funds over time under our Fundbuilder scheme. The Wacey Family FundEssex has been at the heart of Chris and Michele Wacey%u2019s lives for over 60 years. It%u2019s where they began their married life, raised their daughters Nicola and Claire, and built several successful businesses. Following the sale of their business interests, the Wacey family began exploring how they could give back to the community. After being introduced to us by a friend, Chris and Michelle felt that our approach, values and objectives mirrored their own. By working with us, they could support local charities helping people to move their lives forward in a positive way, throughout Essex, Southend and Thurrock.Pavitt Family Charitable FundAfter building a successful career in tech, Phil Pavitt and his family are now using that success to support others.%u202fThrough their Fund, they will support small and mediumsized charities across Essex that work with vulnerable and disadvantaged communities, especially children. Their giving reflects a deep commitment to making a meaningful and lasting difference close to home. Ystwyth FundA former trustee, Owen Richards had a strong understanding of the value of community foundations in supporting local communities.Born in Aberystwyth, his love of the performing arts was nurtured from an early age. Living, studying and working in Wales gave Owen rich cultural experiences, and his move to Essex opened further opportunities to explore London%u2019s galleries, concert halls and theatres. Over time, his interests expanded into the visual arts.Much of Owen%u2019s career was in NHS management, where he saw the positive role of the arts in therapeutic settings. His Fund now supports individuals and organisations engaged in the performing or visual arts, whether pursuing a career, using the arts in therapy, or strengthening communities through creativity. Local philanthropy is not one-size-fits-all. It can begin with a simple gift, a family%u2019s decision to create a lasting legacy, a corporate investment or a fundraising event. It can involve donating money, but also time, resources and expertise, or simply a commitment to giving over time. What unites all our donors and fundholders is a shared commitment to making Essex stronger, fairer and better connected. Atul Manek, Incoming Chair of Trustees and FundholderMore people than ever are discovering new and meaningful ways to give back and support their communities through our Foundation. In our financial year ending 30 June 2025 we established 21 new funds each one reflecting the unique reasons for its formation, the causes and areas its founders care about, and the ambitions that drive their giving. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the %u00a35.3 million we received into our endowed funds including new funds established and donations into existing funds.The Wacey family.Phil and Tracey Pavitt.Owen Richards.