The three elected members bring varied experience and skills to the philanthropic organisation at a time when the foundation is launching new campaigns and expanding support.

Finance director Nigel Jarvis, retired lawyer Carole Ainio and real estate firm founder Neil Jens are passionate about supporting the Ballarat Foundation’s mission to address the needs of the community. 

Mr Jarvis said he would bring his knowledge of finance to the board, paired with a fresh perspective and a hope to address increasing needs as Ballarat’s population grows. 

“In the next 20 years we will double in population, we need to keep up with that growth as a foundation,” he said. 

Ms Ainio has experience supporting philanthropic organisations working with the Brotherhood of St Laurence before becoming a lawyer.

She hopes to see the Ballarat Foundation grow and gain more funding to support expanded programs, activities and services.

Mr Jens contributed to the Ballarat Foundation in its early days through his real estate firm, providing office space, and access to photocopiers and phones, in addition to providing monetary support. 

Now he sees the potential for increased community engagement and support.

“I think things are changing in the philanthropic sense. I think people are a lot more ready now to support things they believe in or they think are worthwhile,” he said. 

“If we can encourage donations and make sure the money goes to really worthwhile causes and people see that the funds are being used effectively, then I think there is a real opportunity to grow the work that is being done for less fortunate people.”

Ballarat Foundation chief executive Matt Jenkins said the organisation focussed on creating partnerships for collective impact. 

“We connect people that can help, with people that need help.”

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