Mayor’s fund open for community grants

Money raised by the inaugural Auckland Mayoress’ Charity Gala Ball will soon be available to groups working with young Aucklanders as applications for grants are now open.

The ball, hosted by Mayor Len Brown and Mayoress Shan Inglis last November, raised $170,000 towards the Mayoress’ Fund for Youth, an independent charitable fund administered within the Auckland Communities Foundation.

The fund will support initiatives that directly benefit the health, well-being, educational opportunities and employment of young people living in Auckland.

New Zealand still has one of the highest rates of preventable illness and death for children in the OECD. More than 2000 young Aucklanders leave school each year without qualifications, and 15-19 year olds are the most over-represented group in unemployment statistics.

As a mother and grandmother, Mayoress Shan Inglis believes in an Auckland where every child has the best possible start in life and a future to look forward to.

“I believe in an Auckland where every child has the best possible start in life and a future full of opportunities,” says Shan Inglis.

Auckland Communities Foundation Chief Executive Mark Bentley says applications will be assessed by the Foundation’s independent Research and Grants Committee.

“Our advisors are experts in their fields and take an evidence-based approach to grant-making; ensuring that grants support initiatives with proven outcomes that address the real needs of young people in Auckland.”

Mayor Len Brown says he and the Mayoress were thrilled with the generosity of their guests and sponsors at the inaugural event. “The money raised from this event will support important initiatives working toward raising confident, healthy and resilient young Aucklanders with good education and career opportunities.”

A percentage of the money raised each year will be held within the fund to ensure long-term support for young Aucklanders.

How to make applications for funding 

Visit the Auckland Communities Foundation website

Fund opens for applications: Now

Applications close: 31 March 2012

Grants announced: 25 May 2012