Celebrating our 25th anniversary

Kent Community Foundation marked its 25th anniversary last week with a special day of celebrations at the iconic Turner Contemporary in Margate, bringing together people from across Kent who have played a role in the Foundation’s journey.

The anniversary was marked through two events, reflecting the breadth of the Foundation’s work and partnerships and showcasing the 25 shortlisted entries from our Community in Focus photography competition.

In the afternoon, grantees and voluntary and community sector colleagues gathered to connect and reflect on the impact of local giving. Speeches were delivered by Natalie Smith, Director of Grants and Impact, Catherine Glover, Chief Executive, and The Lady Colgrain, Lord Lieutenant of Kent. Presentations were made to the three winners of our photography competition by Lady Colgrain and trustee Gail Hall from Warners Solicitors, which sponsored the competition.

The celebrations continued into the evening with a drinks reception for fund holders and supporters. Guests were welcomed by the vibrant Old School Samba band drumming outside the gallery, setting a joyful tone for the evening, followed by performances from Shepway Voices choir. Speeches from Catherine Glover, Robert Sackville‑West, Chair of Trustees, and The Lady Colgrain highlighted the importance of place‑based philanthropy and the role of local generosity in strengthening Kent’s communities.

The anniversary celebrations offered a moment to look back with pride on 25 years of impact - and to look ahead with ambition to the future of community-led change in Kent.