Cumbria Community Foundation was formed in 1999 which means we are delighted to be celebrating our 25th anniversary in 2024/25.

Since our inception, we have made grants totalling around £70m to communities, organisations and individuals across the county. These good causes need our help more than ever and we are bold in our ambitions to grow our reach and impact over the coming years.  Read about our grant making and philanthropy plans to 2028 in our Five-year strategy.

Throughout our anniversary year, we want to thank those who have supported us to date, celebrate all that we have achieved so far, and engage with those who are keen to get involved.

There are lots of ways to join in and help us make our anniversary year special.

This year, we’re encouraging businesses and individuals to set up an Acorn Fund which will help to improve the lives of Cumbrians.

An Acorn Fund is invested in and grown over time through regular and one-off donations with the returns being used to fund grants and ensure long-term support for voluntary and community organisations.

In May and June 2024, we held a Corporate Virtual Coast to Coast event, whereby teams were challenged to cover 171 miles in six weeks by walking, running, skipping, rowing – however they liked. We had a fantastic response, with more than 130 people from 18 teams taking part.

Other events taking place:

• Garden Party at Levens Hall – 21 May 2024
• Supporters and Members Thank You event at Tullie, Carlisle – 12 September 2024
• Cumbria Cultural Fund relaunch at Rheged, Penrith – 7 November 2024
• 25th anniversary annual dinner – 26 March 2025

However you’d like to get involved with Cumbria Community Foundation in this special year, we’d love to hear from you. Email enquiries@cumbriafoundation.org or give us a call on 01900 825760.