“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.”

“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 would never have known about many of the causes I’ve helped if the community foundation hadn’t told me about them. They are doing vital work and they need our support.”

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

“The overriding aim of LYP is to bring hope for the future to young people, some of whom have given up on expecting anything positive out of life.”

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

“Generosity is the best investment.”

“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.”

“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 really must thank the team for helping me during the application process and for having such faith in our work.”

“OCF have been a pleasure to deal with: efficient, effective, and prompt in their communications, and understanding when problems or delays have impeded our progress, for which we are very grateful. The work they are doing in our county is first-class, reaching into all areas of the community.”

“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!”