Individual and family philanthropy is the mainspring of community foundations' activity. The many different ways people choose to get involved to support our communities reflects their overwhelming generosity. In 2005, Helen McArdle had a very clear idea of what she wanted to achieve with her philanthropy. Helen wanted to help young people and families who were having a tough time and she knew this would require significant support over several years. Helen asked the Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland to identify local organisations which were really making a difference on issues such as homelessness, domestic violence and disability.

Jamie established the 23 Foundation at the beginning of 2009 with the Community Foundation for Merseyside in order to provide grants to young people in communities. This saw Jamie donating the proceeds from his testimonial in 2010 to create the fund which now is valued at over £1 million. The 23 Foundation is currently looking to recruit marathon runners ...

Mary's efforts, completely voluntary, have helped to create a community driven initiative that has touched the lives of not only hundreds of local people, but has informed and inspired communities throughout the country and beyond.

A free karate training programme run by an off-duty policeman has helped to reduce anti-social behaviour involving youngsters in Leeds.