Queen visits Wiltshire to mark Community Foundation's 50th anniversary
Her Majesty unveiled a commemorative plaque for Wiltshire Community Foundation
Her Majesty Queen Camilla has visited Wiltshire to join Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation (WSCF) in marking its 50th anniversary.
She joined the organisation at Wellington Barn, in Calne, as it also announced it's reintroducing Swindon to its name, to reflect the breadth of its work and its origin.
The organisation was founded in 1975 by Lord Joel Joffe as the Thamesdown Community Trust, before merging with Wiltshire Community Trust to become the organisation it is now.
The Queen met with donors and supporters as well as people who have benefitted from funding provided by Foundation, hearing their stories.
After that, she unveiled a commemorative 50th Anniversary plaque, which was crafted and mounted by grant recipients, Tidworth and Ludgershall Men’s Shed, before cutting a celebratory cake baked by another grant recipient, Lily Shergold of Bake with Lil.
The organisation, has awarded almost £27million in grants to support hundreds of thousands of people across the county, helping address a wide range of local issues such as poverty, rural isolation and mental health.
It also helps young people access higher education and training or launch their own business through bespoke grant programmes.
Commenting on the event, Joint Chief Executive Fiona Oliver said: “It was a tremendous honour to mark the 50th anniversary of Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen. This milestone celebrated all that can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose.
“Over the past five decades, the Foundation has provided vital support to thousands of charities, community groups and individuals — strengthening communities, inspiring generosity, and helping to foster thriving local communities.
“None of this would be possible without the vision and commitment of our Board, the dedication of our staff, and the incredible support of our donors, partners, volunteers and the wider voluntary sector. We are deeply grateful to all those who have contributed to this remarkable legacy.”