Kia ora koutou, greetings everyone.
 
In my last newsletter update I mentioned Gavin taking on a new role in England and the Board actively recruiting for a new Executive Officer.  We’ve publicised the outcome through various channels since then, but if you’re a newsletter reader only I can confirm we’re delighted to have recruited Nettie Stow!
 
Since that last newsletter we’ve also added two new endowment funds, to support Life Linc and Nelson City Brass.  If those are causes you love please consider adding to those Funds, by talking to Nettie or Kim, or via our website.  We’re of course always keen to capture ad hoc donations for other Funds, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Age Concern, Golden Bay, Richmond Riding for the Disabled, Zest for Life, and Clifton Terrace School.  https://www.topsouthfoundation.org.nz/donate/
 
In August we completed our review of applications for the July 2023 grants round, and we’re delighted with the number and quality of applications we received.  We’ll announce final decisions in the next few weeks, but already know it will be a record granting year for us; from $17k three years, ago, $53k two years ago, and $82k last year.
 
Our latest newsletter includes a first EO update from Nettie, news on our pending Annual Report and AGM, a reminder that September is Wills Month, a thanks to Datacom, and an impact story from Marlborough.  Please share the newsletter around!
 
In the meantime the Board’s focus includes supporting Nettie’s flying start, the ongoing pursuit of operations funding (we can’t apply to ourselves 😊), and staying close to some exciting work happening in the region on charities sector collaboration and support.  I expect we’ll report more on that in the near future.
 
Ngā mihi, kind regards
 
Dave Ashcroft, Chair, [email protected]