40 years of giving

1980s: Laying the foundations

In the early 1980s, South Yorkshire was identified as a location for a new kind of community-led charitable fund. The voluntary sector had grown significantly since the creation of South Yorkshire County Council in 1974. Key figures including solicitor David Brayshaw and development officer Felicity Craven played a crucial role in strengthening the region’s voluntary infrastructure, including the creation of four Councils for Voluntary Service across the county.

Felicity’s work with the South Yorkshire Charity Information Service Trust (SYCIST), supported by the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, helped build strong networks and a deep understanding of local need. A trip to California to learn about American community foundations reinforced the potential for a similar model in South Yorkshire.

1983: The spark of an idea

In April 1983, Wallace Johnson of the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust visited California and returned inspired by the community foundation model. After discussing the idea with Felicity Craven, she agreed to explore its potential locally. A pivotal lunch took place at the Crucible Theatre restaurant on 9 June 1983 with a small group of influential local leaders.

The group agreed that a foundation could bring long-term benefit to the region, and that it should serve the whole of South Yorkshire – not just Sheffield. Felicity was asked to produce a formal proposal, drawing on international examples and UK voluntary sector insight.

1986: Formal establishment

Fast forward to 1986, and after three years of planning, consultations and negotiations, a subcommittee of SYCIST – made up of respected local leaders – developed a draft trust deed, carried out county-wide engagement and secured early financial backing. In May 1986, the trust deed for the South Yorkshire Foundation was signed by the founder trustees.

In July 1986, the Home Office awarded a grant of £15,000 per year for three years to support the new foundation’s administration. On 23 July 1986, the first full trustee meeting was held at Cutlers’ Hall, marking the official birth of South Yorkshire Community Foundation. Wallace Johnson became Honorary Director and Felicity Craven was appointed Development Officer.

The 1990s: A decade of growth and consolidation

In the 1990s, we strengthened our role as a trusted grant-maker across South Yorkshire. We expanded our network of donors, built strong partnerships with local authorities and charitable trusts, and continued to champion grassroots organisations. During a time of economic and social change, we established ourselves as a reliable source of funding and expertise.

This decade also saw us refine our grant-making processes, develop thematic funding programmes and build a strong reputation for deep local knowledge and transparent, community-focused investment.

2000s: Expanding reach

The 2000s marked an era of professionalisation and greater visibility. We increased our capacity, embraced digital record-keeping and invested in developing new funds and partnerships. During this period, we delivered targeted programmes supporting community safety, young people’s opportunities and neighbourhood renewal.

By the end of the decade, we were playing a leading role in regional philanthropy, supporting donors to create lasting impact and helping communities respond to emerging social challenges.

2013: SYFAB joins SYCF 

In 2013, South Yorkshire Funding Advice Bureau (SYFAB) joined us, bringing decades of expertise in funding advice and support for community groups.

This partnership strengthened our ability not only to distribute grants, but also to help local organisations become more sustainable and confident in securing funding.

2016: A major milestone for South Yorkshire

We marked our 30th anniversary in 2016 with a celebration of three decades of community impact. Events and publications reflected on the thousands of groups we had supported, the donors who made it possible and the lasting legacy of our founders.

We secured new match funding thanks to the generosity of the Liz and Terry Bramall Foundation, enabling the creation of our Philanthropy Catalyst Match Challenge – a significant step in supporting and growing local philanthropy.

2019: Major flood appeal

In November 2019, heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding across South Yorkshire. We swiftly launched a Flood Disaster Relief Appeal, raising over £1.4 million thanks to match-funding from central government and the National Lottery.

Through the appeal, we supported 1,468 households, helping them rebuild and recover – a powerful example of our deep roots in and commitment to our communities.

2020: COVID-19 response and recovery

As the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, we once again responded rapidly. We launched a Response & Recovery Grants programme, distributing £1.5 million to 383 community groups across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield.

These funds supported vital services, highlighting our role at the heart of the community during a national crisis.

Today: Celebrating 40 Years

A thriving foundation supporting South Yorkshire’s future

Today, as we celebrate 40 years of community impact, we continue to champion grassroots organisations, support local philanthropy and respond to the needs of diverse communities across South Yorkshire. With the continued support of SYFAB within our organisation, we offer not only funding but also essential development support for community groups.

Four decades since our founders first met at the Crucible Theatre, we remain true to our original purpose: helping local people transform local communities – now, and for future generations.