Businesses in Cumbria have a proud history of supporting local communities whose residents are their neighbours, customers and employees.

Cumbria Community Foundation provides the practical support and advice needed to achieve this through a range of services tailored to match corporate aspirations and objectives with the needs of local charities, voluntary and community organisations.

Carlisle based industrial supplies company Thomas Graham established a long term fund in 2008, which is now worth almost £200,000.

Roger Smith, Managing Director said: “As a Cumbrian business we wanted to support local community activities but were getting a lot of requests for help. We set up a fund which targets grants to young people and sport in the Carlisle area. We are confident that our money is going to the best projects. Working with the Foundation means we can support the causes that we care about without the hassle.”

Their first grant was awarded to Carlisle’s Northbank Football Club towards volunteer coaching courses, football strips and equipment.

Club Secretary, John Twentyman said: “Northbank FC has a thriving junior section from under 7s up to under 18s competing in the Longhorn Hardware Youth League. The funding enabled five volunteers to take a level one football course, which contributed to the club being able to continue to provide qualified training and support to young people.”

Thirteen community groups have so far been supported from the Thomas Graham Fund including Carlisle One World Centre (COWC), Dalston Scout Group, Carlisle Futsal Club and Copeland Rugby League Development Foundation.

Cumbria Community Foundation provides companies with effective mechanisms for giving back to the area. There are a variety of ways to channel charitable funds whilst retaining grant decision making and staff involvement.