Between September 18-20th more than 250 delegates, including those from community foundations from all over the UK and abroad gathered at Bristol University for three days of networking, exchanging ideas and feeling inspired by the extraordinary work of community foundations.
Hosted by David Harvey, BBC Bristol journalist and Trustee of Quartet Community Foundation, the conference kicked off with an opening speech by our Chair, David Sheepshanks CBE DL. Inspirational keynote presentations by Chief Executive of the Eden Project, Sir Tim Smit KBE and founder of Kids Company, Camila Batmanghelidjh CBE, sparked ideas among the delegates, supported by workshops on topics relevant to charitable giving.
Day two was equally action packed: we looked at the impact of Fair Share Trust, digital storytelling with Media Trust, Community Rights, working effectively with donors and much more! The evening was memorable, with delegates performing death-defying tricks like plate-spinning, hat throwing and tightrope walking at Circomedia, and a Chair’s dinner hosted by David Sheepshanks. At Circomedia, besides aerial performances and a short play by the Living Spit Theatre Company, the evening’s special guest was John Bird MBE.
The three days finished on a high note the following morning, with Sir Peter Bazelgette, Chair of Arts Council England, talking about arts and philanthropy. There were more inspiring speakers and an open space session for delegates to share and discuss their ideas for the network.
For further information and highlights:
http://ukcommunityfoundations.org/media/news_article/ukcf_conference_20131
