Redditch, UK: Children’s charity Oakland Foundation, set up by Oakland International, celebrates 10 years.
The Oakland Foundation has grown from a local charity supporting the Worcestershire communities of Redditch and Bromsgrove and opening the area’s first official food bank in Redditch, to a charity supporting community initiatives, schools, and youth projects for children under the age of 16 and their families in England and Wales.
Dean Attwell, (pictured above) chief executive, Oakland International said: “We initially decided to launch our own foundation following hearing about the level of child poverty in Redditch and Bromsgrove, and we felt we could and should do something about the problem and are delighted to have received the commitment and support from our trustees to deliver some outstanding change locally.
“Many more challenges ahead which is why we are lifting our levels of support which is 100% utilised for good causes – no admin or management fees.”
The Foundation helped formalise the company’s social focus, placing an emphasis on support for local children and their families through funding based around education, health and nutrition, and sport, with the Foundation’s goal to ensure all children, and particularly those living in poverty or underprivileged, irrespective of social background or physical ability, can participate.
Debbie Roberts, (pictured above) the Foundation’s Donations Coordinator – a post fully funded by Oakland International – said: “Sadly, many charities start up with the best intentions but sadly fail within two years, and here we are ten years hence.
“I’m honoured to have re-joined the Foundation in their anniversary year with the strength of the Oakland Foundation and the support of Oakland International reaching out into local communities they are utilising their joint skills to support organisations working with children experiencing disadvantage.”
Pictured above are Debbie Roberts, Oakland Foundation donations coordinator with Dean Attwell, chief executive, Oakland International
