“We like to find strategic solutions, not provide sticking plasters.”

“You should focus. You can't change the whole world, but you might want to focus on one little piece of the world that you can change, and I think if you put a lot of time and energy into that one thing, you're going to be much more effective.”

“Many thanks indeed. This sum will make a significant difference to the project. We appreciate enormously the support for Falcon from OCF and from Comic Relief. Please pass on our thanks and best wishes to your colleagues.”

“Much of the council's work would be impossible were it not for the contribution that the voluntary sector makes to almost everything that goes on in the county.”

“I like to have something worthwhile to get up for each morning… I find that the larger and more strategic the gift, the more pleasure I get out of it.”

“I know the significant difference the Community Foundations have made in helping vulnerable people respond to a variety of challenges. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Community Foundations for such great work.”

“I give for a mixture of motives: I do it to make my life more interesting; I do it to make myself feel a better person. I do it because I can; to have the pleasure associated with mixing with the people whose fields I support. I do it for the dream of actually achieving something!”

“It is so uplifting to meet so many people blessed with generous hearts and a deep sense of community.”

“I can’t get over it; I’m still shaking when I talk about it. It’s just incredible… I feel a bit guilty about getting so much pleasure out of giving!”

“Generosity is the best investment.”

“Personally I would just like to say a massive thank you for your wonderful donation towards our wheelchairs. Without it it would have taken much longer to get this project off the ground. For that I will be eternally grateful for your wonderful support.”

“I’ve lived in Oxfordshire for many years, and feel I’ve benefited greatly from being in such a thriving and interesting place. Leaving a legacy to OCF in my will is my way of repaying this – and I also trust that they will understand exactly where funds are needed in years to come. Having seen small voluntary sector groups come and go, I find this longevity very reassuring.”