Community Foundation names new patrons

South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation has appointed nine new patrons to help champion its work across the region.

The region’s largest grant-giving charity has welcomed Deputy Lieutenant of South Yorkshire Julie MacDonald DL and Neil MacDonald OBE, Martin and Juliet McKervey, Tony and Jane Pedder, Jill White, Andy Hanselman and former sports minister Richard Caborn to the honorary roles.

Representing business, healthcare, philanthropy and the voluntary sector, the new patrons will act as ambassadors for the Foundation, raising awareness of its work and supporting local philanthropy across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield.

Martin, who also represents Rotherham on the Foundation’s social value business network, South Yorkshire’s Giving Network (SYGN), said: “It is truly an honour for Juliet and myself to be appointed as patrons of South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation and a privilege to take on this ambassadorial role, helping spread the word about the vital work SYCF does across our communities.

“At AESSEAL, we’ve worked closely with the Community Foundation for many years and seen first-hand the positive impact it has on local people, especially in Rotherham where we are based. 

“The Foundation cares deeply about communities, understands its donors and acts as a genuine catalyst for positive change.”

Entrepreneur and leadership specialist Jill added: “I’m incredibly proud to become a patron of South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation and keen to champion philanthropy, particularly in Barnsley, where my roots are firmly planted.

“My dad worked down the pit and my mum worked at the Co-op in Wombwell, so I know the importance of community and people supporting one another. 

“Having built and grown businesses over 30 years alongside my husband, Andy, I have always believed in the principle of ‘if I can, you can’.

“Throughout my career, I’ve always been passionate about helping people fulfil their potential. 

“The Community Foundation has an incredible track record of creating opportunities and strengthening communities across South Yorkshire and I’m delighted to play a small part in helping that work reach even more people.”

The appointments come as South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation celebrates its 40th anniversary, having awarded more than £40 million in grants to grassroots organisations over the past four decades.

Martin Singer, chief executive of South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation, added: “It is a privilege to welcome our new patrons to the Community Foundation and we’re absolutely delighted to have them on board.

“This is an important step in our journey to build a strong network of ambassadors who can help us expand our reach across all four corners of South Yorkshire. 

“We hope this is the beginning of a growing patron community that will support our mission going forward.

“Collectively, our new patrons bring a breadth of experience, expertise and passion for South Yorkshire. 

“They understand the challenges facing local communities and share our commitment to helping people and places thrive.

“The calibre of individuals reflects both the strength of the Community Foundation and the growing recognition of the impact being made through local giving.

“We look forward to working together to inspire more philanthropy, strengthen community connections and create even greater opportunities for people across our region.”

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