Grants Panel Member

Becoming a real resource in the county!

by Frances Alexander, former member of our Grants Panel

Not long after the Buckinghamshire Community Foundation was formed, I was asked to serve on the Grants Panel. I had then recently lost my seat on Wycombe District Council. Having had the opportunity to meet so volunteers in many of the local voluntary groups not only in my ward but also throughout the district as Chairman of Wycombe District Council and as Mayor of High Wycombe, I felt that my close knowledge of the voluntary scene would come in useful – and I know that has proved to be so!

It is always a delight to be able to take a little of the burden of fundraising off the playgroup leaders with a cheque that can buy a small Astroturf pitch for football, or a new fridge for a village hall. Helping scouts repair the roof of their small hall, or launching a community newspaper means so much to those hard-working people who already give much time to the group without being involved in the constant fundraising.

I have watched the staff build up their knowledge and expertise over the years to become a real resource to the people of the county. They ensure that the right fund is used for each application, that advice on further funding is readily available.

Sometimes Aylesbury seems a long way away for a meeting, but the train service is very good if I don't feel up to driving. I always feel that the team on the Grants Panel has done a good job as I leave.