Mel Lavin

Quartet Community Foundation

Quartet Community Foundation changes people's lives for the better across the West of England, giving as many people as possible the chance to fulfil their potential. We match the interests of donors - people, companies and charitable trusts - to vital projects that meet the needs and aspirations of our communities and make a profound difference to people's lives. Quartet is an independent charity and we're unique in our area. Originally founded in 1987 we serve a population of 1.1 million people in the four unitary authority areas of Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. We are part of a national network of 47 quality accredited Community Foundations that match those who want to give money locally with good causes and charities working to improve local communities. We're responsive and strategic grant-makers, community leaders in the third sector and – most importantly – advocates for the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in our communities, nurturing both the joy of giving and inspiring further action. Over the past 35 years we have made grants of over £66 million and built a permanent endowment of over £59 million. We distribute around 1,000 grants each and every year to voluntary and community groups across the West of England and we produce an annual Vital Signs report that assesses local needs and guides decisions about where philanthropy can make the most impact.