Border Trust launches bold goal of $20million Community Impact Fund to address local causes that matter – today, tomorrow and forever.
Border Trust will launch its most ambitious initiative yet – a $20million Community Impact Fund (CIF), on Thursday, 1 May 2025, as part of its 20th anniversary celebrations and the commencement of Local Giving Month. The launch event will take place at the Hume Boat Club, Bellbridge, overlooking Lake Hume, symbolising the collective power of building something lasting, drop by drop.
Established in 2005, Border Trust has spent two decades working with generous local donors to distribute more than $5million in grants to charities and not-for-profits across Albury, Wodonga, Towong, Indigo, Federation and Greater Hume. These grants have helped address everything from social isolation and youth mental health to natural disaster recovery and community leadership.
Now, Border Trust is looking to the future.
“When we first established Border Trust, our goal was to create something truly local and lasting,” says original Board Director Chris Horton. “To see the Community Impact Fund being launched 20 years later – something that will benefit our region for generations – is both humbling and inspiring.”
The Community Impact Fund is designed to become the region’s most enduring community asset, generating sustainable, long-term funding for local not-for-profits through investment income. The $20 million target will be built gradually over time, supported by donations, fundraising efforts, and community partnerships.
“We know the need in our community is great, and we also know that our local giving spirit is even greater,” says Border Trust Executive Officer Sue Gold. “The Community Impact Fund is about future-proofing our region. Imagine what local not-for-profits could achieve if they had confidence that there was a consistent stream of funding to support them to address local issues.”
One of the many organisations that has benefited from Border Trust grants over the years is Albury Wodonga Regional Foodshare, which has received funding for infrastructure upgrades, upscaled emergency food relief effort projects, as well as safety equipment for volunteers.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Border Trust for their continued commitment to supporting local organisations who exist to strengthen our community,” said Katrina Pawley, Foodshare CEO. “The Community Impact Fund is exactly the kind of support regional not-for-profits need — in that it’s long-term, place-based, and focused on what matters to our local community.”
Long-time donor Pauline Harbick echoed the importance of giving locally:
“We give to Border Trust because we know every dollar stays right here in our community. The Community Impact Fund is a chance for all of us to leave a legacy of care, connection, and impact.”
The message to the community is clear: this fund will only be possible if we build it together.
“Whether you donate, fundraise, or help us spread the word – every action counts,” says Ms Gold. “Like Lake Hume, the Community Impact Fund will be filled one contribution at a time. And like Lake Hume, it will become a vital, lasting resource for our region.”