In an era where dedicated supporters are the backbone of not-for-profits and community organisations, Community Trust South and Graeme Dingle Foundation Southern proudly celebrate a remarkable 15-year journey of collaboration. This enduring partnership has fuelled positive change and impacted the lives of tamariki and rangatahi in Southland.
Chairman Michael Lee of Graeme Dingle Foundation Southern expressed his gratitude, stating, “Community Trust South has been an invaluable partner in our mission to empower the next generation. Their unwavering support and shared vision have been instrumental in shaping our success and creating meaningful change in our community.”
Long-term trustee Carla Forbes added, “For 15 years, Community Trust South has demonstrated an exemplary commitment to our cause. Their generous contributions have enabled us to expand our reach and enhance our programs, ultimately making a significant difference in the lives of young people in Southland.”
Since its inception two decades ago, Graeme Dingle Foundation Southern, formerly known as the Foundation for Youth Development, has been dedicated to making a difference in the community. Community Trust South’s support has been a driving force behind their ability to create lasting change.
With Community Trust South’s incredible $847,430 in contributions over the years, Graeme Dingle Foundation Southern has launched long-term in school educational programs empowering the next generation and undertaken community projects with local schools annually. Each project has been a stepping stone toward a brighter and more inclusive future for Southland.
Graeme Dingle Foundation Southern, Regional General Manager said, “Having recently received our latest Infometrics report we know that every $1.00 that is invested in our programmes, has a positive social impact of $10.50 for our community. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a long-standing partnership in Southern, and we are excited that this continues and has such a positive impact on the community”.
Jackie Flutey, CEO of Community Trust South, praised Graeme Dingle Foundation Southern for their dedicated efforts and commendable results. “The enduring impact of the in-class programs, highlight how the foundation fosters meaningful relationships and provide continuous positive role modelling, these initiatives not only benefit individual children but also have a significant ripple effect across the broader community”.
Flutey’s remarks underscore the invaluable contribution of programs like Graeme Dingle’s in nurturing resilience, goal setting, and instilling strong values in our youth, ultimately leading to a more resilient and thriving community.
Looking ahead, Graeme Dingle Foundation Southern is optimistic about the future, as Community Trust South has committed to stand by their side for another three years. Together, they aim to overcome new challenges and continue creating positive change in the community.
Chairman Michael Lee concluded, “Partnerships are so important for our organisation and the work we do, we are fortunate to have so many partners that share our vision and get involved, like the one we share with Community Trust South. These relationships are the driving force behind meaningful impact in the world of not-for-profit work. Cheers to 15 years of partnership, commitment, and making a difference for our youth here in Southland.
For more information about Graeme Dingle Foundation Southern click here or email office.southern@dinglefoundation.org.nz to find out more about volunteering for Southern Youth.