£1 million Raised by Guildford Philanthropy to Support Good Causes

Published on: 21 Dec, 2021
Updated on: 22 Dec, 2021

Guildford Borough Council’s charitable fund, Guildford Philanthropy has raised £1 million to support the local community.

The fund was started with the Community Foundation for Surrey in 2014 and exists to support charities and not-for-profit organisations that help transform the lives of less advantaged members of the community.

It has grown steadily through donor support and by taking Guildford Young Carers and Carers Support Guildford under its wing.

Peter Cluff

Chairman of Guildford Philanthropy, Peter Cluff said: “This is a magnificent milestone. We are proud of everything we have achieved to date but there are still so many more people that we want to help.

“The £1 million raised has come from so many generous donations. We are humbled by the support that we have received. This would not have been possible without our brilliant Corporate Ambassadors, donors and the council, who match-fund all donations. We are extremely grateful to everyone.

“Local business which would like to support local people, can become one of our Corporate Ambassadors. Existing ambassadors have let us know that working with us has supported their Corporate Social Responsibility programme as well as providing fantastic networking opportunities at our events. It could also raise business profiles, locally.”

Cllr Joss Bigmore

Leader of the council, Joss Bigmore said: “Helping our residents, especially those who have less opportunity than others, is at the heart of everything we do as a council. We really value the great work that Guildford Philanthropy has done and continues to do for our communities. Their work before and throughout the pandemic has been incredible.”

And Deputy Leader Julia McShane said: “As a council, we are here to support our residents.

Cllr Julia McShane

“From supporting those in need by providing hot meals to work experience opportunities, this charity has done great work for our less-advantaged residents.

“Our Community Lottery also contributes to Guildford Philanthropy and has raised almost £25,000. It can help not-for-profit organisations raise money. 50% of all ticket sales go straight to a local good cause, with another 10% going to Guildford Philanthropy.

“It’s all online and easy to set up. Each participant gets their own fundraising page, online marketing materials and marketing support all for free. Sign up at www.guildfordlottery.org.“

Rebecca Bowden, Chief Executive of Community Foundation for Surrey said: “We are absolutely delighted to be able to congratulate everyone involved in Guildford Philanthropy for their sterling work in raising £1million for good causes in the borough.

“Our network of funds across the county is so important to help connect those who are able to give with those who most need support in our area, and we know that it is the local knowledge and expertise of groups like Guildford Philanthropy that are so invaluable to us to make sure that every penny raised makes the most possible difference to those who need it most.

“We thank everyone involved for all their hard work – Together we can make a difference!”

Misty Bower, CEO of the Matrix Trust said: “Matrix has been really blessed by the support we have received from Peter Cluff and Guildford Philanthropy over the last few years. Not only have they helped us to source vital funding, but Peter has helped us develop valuable connections with the University of Surrey and local businesses, both of which have enabled us to launch a social enterprise, The Hideaway Café.

“The cafe supports at-risk young people into employment, giving them on-the-job experience and training whilst providing the community with a creative retreat in the heart of Guildford where they can give back to the community.”

If you would like to help, you can donate online. You can also get involved in individual projects or provide expertise by emailing info@guildfordphilanthropy.org.uk.