After more than a decade of supporting young people across the UK, the Rob George Foundation (RGF) has announced a strategic step to secure its long-term future by transferring its operations to the independent charitable trust, Essex Community Foundation (ECF).
RGF was founded in January 2014 in memory of Rob George, an accomplished sportsman and Colchester Royal Grammar School student who died aged just 21 following a courageous battle with acute myeloid leukaemia. Since then, the Foundation has provided over £1 million in grants and supported more than 1,700 young people facing life-threatening illnesses or pursuing excellence in sport and the performing arts.
Philip George, Rob’s dad and chair of the RGF Trustees, said, “We knew that the time had come for us to think about succession and sustainability. Partnering with ECF allows us to preserve the spirit and purpose of the Foundation, while placing it in experienced and trusted hands. We’re excited about the future and comforted by the knowledge that the fund created in Rob’s name is now safeguarded for generations to come.
“Rob would’ve been proud of everything we’ve achieved, and proud that we’ve found a way to ensure the work carries on.”
ECF brings almost 30 years of expertise in managing charitable funds and shares RGF’s commitment to maximising impact, while keeping overheads low. The two organisations have previously collaborated on several jointly funded awards, building a relationship founded on shared values and transparency.
For supporters, the transition will feel largely seamless. Donations and fundraising efforts will continue as before, with all contributions going directly to the RGF endowment managed by ECF. Grants will be awarded monthly within a framework that ensures sustainability.
Caroline Taylor, CEO of Essex Community Foundation, said, “It is a real privilege for us to take on the management of the Rob George Foundation and help carry forward the incredible legacy that Philip and Lorraine have built in their son’s memory.
“Since 2014, the Foundation has made a profound difference to the lives of young people with life-threatening illnesses or who are pursuing excellence in sport and the performing arts, and their families. We are proud to continue this important work and ensure Rob’s memory lives on through every grant made in his name. The partnership reflects our shared ethos of creating lasting change and supporting people in need”.
Applications will continue to be welcomed under the Foundation’s original aims – supporting young people with life-threatening conditions and helping those with exceptional talent in sport and the arts. Eligible applicants must be based in Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire or any London Borough.
Donations can be made at any time via www.essexcommunityfoundation.enthuse.com/cf/the-rob-george-foundation