New grants programme continues legacy of Leeds activist

We’re honoured to partner with Mick Ward and his partner Gill, to celebrate the memory of Mick’s son Louie Ward Herbert with this new grants programme. 

Community Action Microgrants will continue Louie’s passion and legacy in community building and organising. Grants will support citizen-led projects and community development activity to promote equality, inclusion and community cohesion – values Louie held dear. 

Mick and Gill said: 

“We wanted to work with Leeds Community Foundation on developing this fund because we were aware of their dedicated and professional approach to grant giving in Leeds, their ability to reach groups and organisations who may not readily access other funding opportunities and that they would be receptive to the aims and values reflected in the fund criteria. There is also the significant potential, via the Foundation, of attracting further donations to add to the size of the Community Action Fund to increase its impact and Louie’s legacy.” 

Louie, who died aged 41 of cancer in 2024, was a dedicated activist and community organiser, and the co-founder of Acorn community union. He was an ally to those with little power, working at various human rights charities and passing on his skills and knowledge as a community organiser to others. 

In his memory, the Community Action Microgrants programme will support community organisations in Leeds to deliver activities that align with Louie’s values. We intend funded projects to promote equality and inclusion, directly support disadvantaged groups, work to reduce poverty, and increase connections between people at a neighbourhood level. 

Speaking about the partnership, Leeds Community Foundation Chief Executive, Steph Taylor, said: 

“We’re honoured that Mick and Gill have trusted us as their partners on this special grants programme. Together, we will invest in grassroots organisations who know best what is needed to support and nurture their communities, with a focus on delivery now and sustainability for the future. We know it works when groups harness the strengths, skills and resources in their communities to foster empowerment, and we hope this programme will do just that.” 

In the spirit of mobilising communities and enabling grassroots activities, we’ve opened up this funding to unconstituted groups, which are typically not eligible to apply for Leeds Community Foundation grants.  

Applications have closed for the first round of Community Action Microgrants, and we look forward to announcing the grant awards soon.