Passion-driven philanthropy

For Anne and David Buckell, making a difference means aligning their personal interests with philanthropic giving.

Anne and David Buckell.

David and Anne have always supported causes that are close to their hearts and wanted to ensure that they could do so, for as long as possible.

They had heard about Nikau Foundation’s model from close friends and family who had decided to set up Funds and had always thought the idea sounded intriguing.

"We were drawn to Nikau Foundation due to their focus on giving back to the Wellington region. While other organisations tend to absorb donations, we knew that Nikau Foundation's model meant that our gift would go further, for longer" says David.

For the Buckell's, having the ability to give back to causes that personally resonate with them is really important. "Each and every organisation we have nominated has affected us, or someone we are close to, throughout our lives. We really loved the fact that we are able to direct our giving so personally," says Anne.

One such organisation is Crohn's and Colitis New Zealand. Diagnosed with Crohn's many years ago, Anne has long had awareness of the condition, which is also suffered by other members of the family; she has advocated for the many challenges Crohn's patients face on a daily basis. This support culminated with a march on parliament in December 2020, where she, and hundreds of Crohn's patients and supporters, rallied for heightened accessibility to crucial biological immunosuppressant medications.

Anne hopes that by naming Crohn's and Colitis New Zealand as a beneficiary of the Anne and David Buckell Fund, the lives of those living with this condition will continue to improve through legislative change, education and improved healthcare.

Similarly, David's own experience in the Scout's as a boy growing up in the U.K. meant that giving back to youth-based causes was an important goal for the fund.

"I know, from personal experience, the skills; both social and practical, that young people can gain from such organisations, and we wanted to make sure that future generations continued to benefit in a similar way."

Through a donor-led approach, Nikau Foundation is proud to offer the opportunity for individuals and families to make an impact on the people, causes and places they love most.

To find our more about Forever Funds, click here.