Set up a Named Fund
It is very straightforward to set up a Named Fund with the Somerset Community Foundation and is a simple alternative to a private charitable trust, offering great flexibility without the administrative burdens.

They can be established in our endowment fund or as 'flow-through' funds by companies, individuals, legacies or through trust transfers. A Named Fund is an excellent way to make a lasting difference in a particular communities and/or to specific issues that matter most to the donor. We will work closely with donors to understand their priorities and help them maximise the impact they are seeking.

The Community First Programme can add £1 to every £2 donated to our endowment fund. The minimum donation or pledge for an endowment Named Fund is usually £25,000, but with Community First match funding a Named Fund could be set up at a net cost of only £8,500 to a higher rate taxpayer.

To find out more contact Justin Sargent by e-mail or call 01749 344949.

Become a Patron
Donors who give £3,000 or more a year for three years, or make a one-off donation of £10,000, can become Patrons of the Foundation. We will work closely with Patrons to understand their priorities for local grant-making and we will arrange visits to local projects funded through the Foundation in their area. We will also organise an annual Patrons’ dinner at a prestigious location around the county.

Join the Somerset Guardians Scheme
Somerset Guardians are people and local businesses who wish to be actively involved with the Foundation by donating £1,000 a year or more. Members of the scheme will receive invitations to special events to meet grant recipients, explore local issues and visit projects funded by the Foundation. If they wish, Guardians will be able to direct their donation to one of five Area Funds (Mendip, Sedgemoor, South Somerset, Taunton Deane, or West Somerset).

Sign up as an Ambassador
This scheme is for individuals and families. You can become an Ambassador by giving a minimum annual donation of £100, or £150 for a family. We hope that you will spread the word about the Foundation and accept invitations to our annual reception and other events. We will send you a copy of our Annual Report and Newsletters to keep you up to date with our work.

Become a Friend
You can join our Friends scheme with a minimum donation of £25 per annum. We would ask you to spread the word about the Foundation and what is does. We will keep you up to date with our work through Newsletters and the Annual Report.

Leave a Legacy
You can leave a legacy in your will to the Foundation, either to support our general work, to support a particular area or establish your own Named Fund. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your ideas and wishes in absolute confidence, but we would encourage you to seek legal advice from your Solicitor also.