Funding Local Causes

Transforming people's generosity into stronger local communities

Hertfordshire Community Foundation (HCF) is an independent charity that aims to encourage local philanthropy, the giving of time, resources or both by local people to help support their local communities.
Hertfordshire is a county of contrasts. It is often perceived to be a prosperous county with a vibrant local economy. However, if you dig a little deeper you will find pockets of disadvantage in every district. We seek to address this deprivation by bringing together local people who care with local causes that matter. We help find funding for local charitable and voluntary groups that do not attract mass public support.

The strength of our communities affects all aspects of our life from our health and wellbeing to our local economy and environment. We believe that communities are powerful sources of friendship, support and a sense of belonging. Our endeavour is to foster a strong sense of community and joint responsibility to create sustainable ways to solve local issues through local investment.

Since inception in 1988, we have awarded over £15 million in support to local communities. HCF currently manages over 100 funds on behalf of individuals, families, companies and other organisations. During 2020/2021 we awarded over £2million in direct grant aid to charitable projects working to help the most vulnerable residents of Hertfordshire.

We provide:
  • philanthropy advice and giving options for individuals, families, businesses and charities
  • funding and other support for groups and individuals
  • leadership on vital issues in our communities

    Click here to read more about our funds and our impact.

    Brief History:

    We are one of 47 community foundations in the UK, and over 1,800 similar foundations around the world. Community foundations collaborate with private philanthropists, family trusts, businesses and the public sector to provide a permanent, flexible and growing source of local charitable funding.

    For the past 30 years, Hertfordshire Community Foundation has offered a professional, flexible service to assist donors, whether individuals, companies or trusts as well as public authorities and agencies, to achieve their charitable giving objectives, whatever the area of interest or level of giving.
  • Catch up with our latest news

    Exclusive networking opportunity for legal, financial and advisory professionals in Hertfordshire
    Legal, financial and advisory professionals working with private clients in Hertfordshire are invited to join Hertfordshire Community Foundation on Friday, 24 May 2024 for an exclusive Private Client Networking Lunch in collaboration with Longmores Solicitors. .
    Spring Walk raises money for local charities
    Over 40 enthusiastic participants gathered in the picturesque Hertfordshire countryside in Buntingford on a sunny morning on 18 April to raise funds and awareness for a good cause. The spring walk was organised by Hertfordshire Community Foundation’s (HCF) Ambassador Henrietta Buxton and graciously hosted by HCF Trustee James Hopkins and his wife Sarah.
    High Sheriff Awards celebrate charitable projects across Hertfordshire
    Liz Green, the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, publicly recognised and rewarded ten Hertfordshire voluntary organisations at the 2024 High Sheriff Awards ceremony held on Tuesday, 26 March 2024. The annual Awards, now in their 29th year, celebrate the excellent work undertaken by charitable groups and individuals who have made a significant contribution to Hertfordshire’s communities.
    Affinity Water supports The Red Shed Garden Project
    Hertfordshire Community Foundation is delighted to announce the recent grant funding allocation to The Red Shed Garden Project, a charity dedicated to supporting individuals living with dementia in Hertfordshire. This funding, made possible through our partnership with Affinity Water and facilitated by our grant-making efforts, highlights our joint commitment to addressing local needs and promoting social well-being.