New Balance Foundation Offers Opportunity for Activity

New Fund Established to Improve Health and Wellbeing Through Sport and Physical Activity in Underrepresented Communities

On Wednesday, September 4th, 2024, a new fund was announced with the aim of promoting health and wellbeing in communities through sport and physical activity. The fund, known as the New Balance Foundation Get Active Fund, was created thanks to the generosity of Cumbria-based sportswear company New Balance’s charitable foundation, the New Balance Foundation (NBF).

Managed by Cumbria Community Foundation, the fund will provide grants to community groups and charitable organizations that work towards increasing physical activity in underrepresented communities. The grants, which will range from £1,000 to £5,000, with a maximum of £10,000 for one grant, will be used to support initiatives that encourage physical activity in these communities.

Caroline Adams, Development Manager for Cumbria Community Foundation, highlighted the need for this fund. “Research by Sport England has shown that a significant portion of adults and children in Cumbria are not getting the recommended amount of physical activity. This fund will help address this issue and support community groups who are working towards keeping people active.”

Paola Bethmage, Global Grants Manager at New Balance Foundation, expressed excitement about the collaboration with Cumbria Community Foundation. “We are thrilled to partner with Cumbria Community Foundation to invest in community-led initiatives that aim to improve the health and wellbeing of families and neighborhoods near our Flimby factory. NBF has already provided over $300,000 USD in grants to organizations in the region.”

Bethmage also emphasized the foundation’s focus on creating positive and long-lasting change through their grants. “New Balance Foundation is dedicated to changing a generation through our grants and we are eager to work with Cumbria Community Foundation to make a positive impact in Cumbria.”

The closing date for applications to the New Balance Foundation Get Active Fund is November 1, 2024. The fund is open to community groups and charitable organizations that can demonstrate a tangible and long-term impact on health, wellbeing, confidence, and social or economic activity.

Priority will be given to projects that benefit culturally diverse communities, disabled individuals, those with long-term health conditions, people aged 55 and over, and women and girls. Additionally, priority will be given to those who have faced challenges such as exclusion from school, unemployment, involvement in gangs or exploitation, domestic violence, homelessness, refugees or asylum seekers, and care experienced young people.

For more information about the fund and how to apply, visit www.cumbriafoundation.org/fund/new-balance-get-active-fund. Organizations applying for more than £5,000 are advised to speak to a Grants Officer first.

To learn more about setting up a fund and supporting those in need in Cumbria, contact Caroline Adams, Development Manager at Cumbria Community Foundation, on 01900 820825 or email caroline@cumbriafoundation.org.

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