NEW Dorset Community Foundation Chief Executive Louise Balaam has spoken of her excitement at taking on the role and says she cannot wait to get out and meet people working in the county’s voluntary sector.
She will bring more than 20 years of not-for-profit sector experience to Dorset’s largest county-based funder. DCF works with donors, organisations and trusts to support grass roots voluntary groups and charities, as well as individuals and last year awarded more than £1.3 million in grants. Since its formation in 2000 it has awarded more than £23 million in the county.
“I’m really looking forward to playing my part and championing the incredible work that DCF enables in the county,” said Louise. “I’m joining a fantastic team and am excited about helping them continue to make a difference.”
She spent 11 years at The Youth Adventure Trust in Wiltshire as its Director of Fundraising and Engagement. Previously she worked as a fundraiser for The National Arboretum at Westonbirt in Gloucestershire and for ChildLine and the NSPCC. She was also a senior consultant at a fundraising consultancy working with independent and state schools and has been a charity trustee.
I’m really looking forward to playing my part and championing the incredible work that DCF enables in the county
She said she had two main reasons for wanting to work with DCF. “First of all, I believe in the power of philanthropy,” she said. “I’ve been working with community foundations for a number of years and I can see the impact they can have in communities.
“Secondly, I fell in love with Dorset coming here on holiday as a child, then chose to make it my home some years ago. There are so many wonderful opportunities in the county but I also recognise the challenges it faces. Through DCF I’d like to play a part in addressing some of those challenges and enabling the people of Dorset to thrive.”
Louise, who is married with two children and lives near Dorchester, said her first priority in the role will be to meet as many stakeholders, partners and voluntary sector leaders as possible. “I want to really understand the role DCF plays before I can shape our future direction, ensuring we remain as impactful and relevant as possible,” she said.
The new Chief Executive, who was until recently a school governor in Dorchester, said her aim is to work tirelessly as an ambassador for DCF to maintain its reputation as a trusted and credible partner for people, to allow them to make a real difference in their communities. “For me, this job is an opportunity to be a positive part of Dorset’s future,” she said.
DCF Chairman Tom Flood CBE welcomed Louise to the role and said he and his fellow trustees are looking forward to seeing her make an impact. “During the appointment process Louise stood out, not only for her experience and leadership skills, but also for her genuine passion for communities and her clear commitment to the values that underpin our work,” he said.
“The board and I are excited to begin this new chapter with Louise at the helm and look forward to supporting her as she gets to know our donors, partners, staff, trustees and the many amazing organisations we work alongside.
“I am confident that her enthusiasm, vision and collaborative approach will help us continue to grow our impact and make a meaningful difference to the lives of local people.”
