In a world that often feels increasingly uncertain – whether due to the rising cost of living, growing mental health challenges, or the pressure on public services – strong communities matter more than ever.
Behind the scenes, community foundations are stepping in to support third sector organisations that help to hold society together. By channelling funding directly to people and causes that need it most, they help charities, non-profits and voluntary groups respond quickly, tangibly and with long-term impact.
The first community foundation was established in 1914 in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. Fast forward 111 years, there are now more than 1,800 community foundations around the world. This May marks five years since Jersey Community Foundation (JCF) was launched during the Covid-19 pandemic – a milestone that invites reflection and celebration.
In just half a decade, JCF has become a vital part of the Island’s support system. It has distributed millions in funding and enabled thousands of people and hundreds of local charities and initiatives to thrive. From supporting mental health services to championing sustainability and strengthening community cohesion, its influence continues to grow.
With this milestone anniversary approaching, it's a fitting time to reflect on some of the standout moments that have shaped JCF’s journey so far. Here are five ways that JCF has made a meaningful difference for islanders.
1. Nearly £10 million in grants distributed to support islanders where it matters most
Since its launch in 2020, JCF will have distributed over £10 million in grants by June 2025 – supporting projects and charities that make a tangible difference to people living in Jersey. This funding has spanned a wide range of sectors, reflecting the complex and varied needs of Jersey’s various communities.
Significant investment of millions of pounds has gone into mental health and wellbeing initiatives, including funding for Mind Jersey to expand its services and reach more islanders – from children to the elderly – facing emotional distress. The Foundation has also supported young people through initiatives like Every Child Our Future’s education-focused programme which helps improve literacy rates in primary schools.
In the arts and culture sector, JCF has provided funding to ArtHouse Jersey and the National Trust for Jersey, helping to preserve the Island’s heritage and inspire creativity. Environmental projects have also received backing – from a hedgerow scheme with Jersey Trees for Life to initiatives that support ocean conservation and sustainability. This includes work with organisations such as Ocean Culture Life which raises awareness of marine protection, and JICAS (Jersey International Centre of Advanced Studies) which conducts cutting-edge environmental research to inform local and global action.
Whether responding to urgent needs or supporting long-term change, the Foundation has ensured that funding reaches grassroots organisations that know their communities best, strengthening Jersey from the inside out.
2. Rapid response in times of emergency
JCF has demonstrated its ability to respond promptly and effectively during emergencies, providing crucial support to islanders when they needed it most. In the aftermath of Storm Ciarán, which displaced numerous families and caused significant hardship, JCF administered the Bailiff's Fund to aid those affected. This initiative facilitated swift financial assistance of £140,000 for essential needs such as clothing, furniture and temporary accommodation, ensuring that relief reached those in distress without delay.
The Foundation has also helped to address pressing social challenges. Amid the escalating cost-of-living crisis, JCF has distributed hundreds of thousands of pounds to vital services and food banks operating at full capacity. Organisations like the Salvation Army, Grace Trust, Caring Cooks of Jersey, St Mark’s Church and Caritas received grants to fund emergency supplies such as food, electricity vouchers, hygiene packs and baby products, providing immediate relief to those facing financial hardship.
Through these actions, JCF has reinforced its role as a pillar of support for the community, adeptly mobilising resources to assist islanders during unforeseen crises.
3. Using research to drive evidence-based funding decisions in Jersey
Central to JCF’s mission is its commitment to evidence-based funding, demonstrated through its partnership with PwC to commission in-depth research into Jersey’s social landscape.
In 2022, JCF launched its Local Needs Assessment – a first-of-its-kind report for Jersey that gathered data from charities, service providers and the community. The research identified seven key social themes, including housing and homelessness, good health and social care and community safety. Notably, the report highlighted that 100 islanders were roofless or houseless at any one time in 2022; that 10% of islanders either lived in, or had experienced, insecure or inadequate housing that year; and that 40% of respondents self-reported high or severe levels of anxiety compared to 4% who reported no anxiety.
The research also identified five key funding priorities: healthy living (including obesity), mental health, care for an ageing population, community inclusion/inequality and cost-of-living impact/poverty. These pillars now guide how JCF allocates grants from its Jersey Community Fund, ensuring funding is aligned with where it's most needed and will have the greatest long-term impact.
Building on this foundation, the 2024 Value of the Third Sector report underscored the significant economic and social contributions of Jersey's third sector. The findings revealed that the sector contributes approximately £230 million in Gross Added Value (GVA) to Jersey’s economy, a figure comparable to the Island’s legal sector. This data not only emphasises the sector's substantial role but also strengthens the case for greater support and recognition.
As James Linder, Lead Economist at PwC Channel Islands, explains, “Organisations should consider what data they need to collect and how they will collect it. The ability of third sector organisations to showcase their impact through data is crucial to increased funding.” By commissioning and applying this research, JCF is helping to shift the focus from reactive giving to evidence-based funding – ensuring that resources are directed to where they will have the greatest impact for Jersey’s people and communities.
4. Encouraging a culture of giving in Jersey
JCF has been instrumental in nurturing a culture of philanthropy in Jersey, connecting donors with causes that address pressing local needs. By offering tailored giving options – such as Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs), themed funds (charitable funds set up to support causes supporting a specific area of interest, such as children and young people or the environment) and legacy giving such as Kezia’s Fund – JCF enables individuals and businesses to contribute effectively and meaningfully to the community.
Beyond facilitating donations, JCF actively promotes philanthropic engagement through research and thought leadership. In May 2024, the Foundation hosted Professor Beth Breeze OBE, the UK's first professor of Philanthropic Studies, to discuss the transformative impact of giving. Professor Breeze spoke to 200 delegates from the business community, government and third sector, emphasising that building a culture of giving involves recognising our shared humanity and collective destiny as neighbours.
She said, “Building a culture of giving is about more than donating money, it's about recognising our shared humanity and common fate as neighbours. Research shows that when done well, philanthropy can strengthen communities and change the lives of both beneficiaries and donors. When we come together to give back, we can create a better world for everyone, now and in the future.”
JCF also collaborates with high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) to channel their resources towards community initiatives. Thanks to Jersey's unique appeal – including its tax advantages, lifestyle and business opportunities – JCF attracts HNWIs who are keen to make a positive impact. These partnerships, such as the one with the Sedel-Collings Foundation, have led to significant multi-year contributions which provide greater stability and security for charities – enabling them to plan ahead, invest in long-term solutions and deliver sustained impact, rather than being limited by the short-term nature of one-off grants.
Through these strategic efforts, JCF is not only addressing immediate community needs but also laying the groundwork for a sustainable and inclusive culture of philanthropy that will benefit Jersey for generations to come.
5. National recognition through UKCF quality accreditation
This month, JCF achieved official accreditation from UK Community Foundations (UKCF), the national membership body for community foundations across the British Isles.
This quality accreditation is a significant milestone that recognises JCF’s commitment to robust governance, financial transparency and effective grant-making. Assessed against UKCF’s rigorous standards, the accreditation assures donors, partners and the wider public that JCF is a trusted, professional and impactful organisation. It also connects JCF more closely with a network of over 45 accredited community foundations, sharing learning and best practices to strengthen local giving and community impact.
For an organisation still in its first five years, this national recognition reflects how far JCF has come and reinforces its role as a trusted steward or charitable funds in Jersey.
As JCF looks to the future, its focus remains clear: to ensure that funding reaches the right places, supports the right people and delivers measurable results. Whether it's helping families through a crisis, improving children's access to education or supporting health services, the Foundation is proving that targeted, data-driven funding can change lives. Their next five-year chapter offers an opportunity to build on this momentum, and for more Islanders, businesses and philanthropists to play a part in shaping a stronger, fairer Jersey.