Aspiring Community Foundation

Category: Inspiration

  • Wills Month

    Wills Month

    The potential good we can do in the future is huge

    The definition of ‘need’ in any community is broad, changing over time. The work of grassroots organisations is typically a good reflection of current needs within a community. A community foundation can help to address changing needs over time, providing intergenerational support that’s underpinned by purpose and an intimate knowledge of place.

    The communities of the Upper Clutha are dynamic and ever evolving, particularly as we continue to grow. Few of the Upper Clutha’s residents were born and raised here. Given the attractions of our area, significant numbers of people enjoy this place without permanently residing here. The cost of living across the Queenstown Lakes District as a whole is high, while mean earnings across the district are lower than the national average. (source: Infometrics)

    Top of mind issues faced by local people and businesses today include cost of living pressures, a lack of affordable housing, housing and health infrastructure needs, and difficulties in recruiting and retaining workers. We have no ​​​​social housing, local refuge or respite care facilities. Many of us move to the district with little to no social network or family support. When people experience difficulties – financial trouble, relationship breakup, mental health issues, substance abuse, health concerns – there is often little option but to leave.

    What kind of community do we want to be?

    Link to article by Ian Walker / Chair of Community Link Charitable Trust – “If you can’t afford to live here, why don’t you leave?” – A Community Reality Check

    QLDC Quality of Life survey

    “This year, 30% of respondents have sufficient disposable income, and 39% have some disposable income. Twenty five percent have no disposable income, and 4% cannot meet their basic needs. This year, the proportion of respondents with no disposable income has significantly increased, and the proportion of those with some disposable income has decreased.” quality-of-life-survey-2024-full-report.pdf

  • What Inspires Us: The legacy of Graham and Olive West

    What Inspires Us: The legacy of Graham and Olive West

    The story of Graham and Olive West stands as a testament to the enduring power of generosity and vision. This remarkable couple, who moved to Wānaka in the 1950s, left behind a legacy that has enriched the lives of countless individuals. Their story is one of humble beginnings, deep community connection, and a commitment to giving back—even beyond their lifetime. 

    Graham and Olive West established the Graham and Olive West Charitable Trust in 1987, naming the Upper Clutha community as its beneficiary. Their wish was simple yet profound: to see their wealth used to uplift and support the community they cherished. The trust has distributed over $1 million over the past decade, funding initiatives that align with the Wests’ vision—supporting children, seniors, the disabled, medical equipment, emergency services, and community well-being.

    “Their wish was simple yet profound: to see their wealth used to uplift and support the community they cherished”. 

    One of the trust’s most significant contributions was a $100,000 grant to fund the hot pool at Wānaka’s Recreation Centre. This community asset offers recreational enjoyment, hydrotherapy for athletes, and a healing space for those recovering from illness or injury. It is a fitting tribute to Graham and Olive, whose love for their community and connection to water inspired their philanthropy. 

    In establishing the Aspiring Community Foundation, we are inspired by similar stories of generosity within our local communities. Yet, as we celebrate these legacies, we also reflect on what could have been achieved with greater collaboration. Had Graham and Olive been able to pool their resources with other like-minded individuals during their lifetime, their impact could have been amplified, creating an even stronger foundation for community growth. Their story reminds us: when we give together, we can achieve extraordinary things.