Our Supporters:
Nick Dyson

Leeds Community Foundation is lucky to have a range of individual members alongside corporate members who share our vision for building a fairer Leeds for everyone. We sat down with Nick Dyson, Partner and Head of the Real Estate team at Blacks Solicitors, to talk about his support of the Foundation and why giving is so important to him.

How long have you been involved with Leeds Community Foundation?

I’ve known about Leeds Community Foundation for over 15 years. Over that time, I have attended events organised by the Foundation, supported them financially, and provided pro-bono legal support through Blacks. It’s an organisation which, whatever it is doing, the people and ethos behind it match my own personal values, so I’m happy to champion it in a personal capacity through being an individual member.

Why is it important to you to support local communities?

I believe we all have a responsibility to play whatever part we can to give back and help others. Giving and volunteering, generally, are simple things we can do which make a real difference. In doing so, everyone can gain. You can give to charities which are supportive of the things you care about or volunteer your time, providing your skills and putting yourself in new situations; the people you meet through it can help you grow as a person.

What do you love about Leeds?

I’m born and bred in Leeds, and I returned here after university. I like the fact that it’s big enough so lots of things are happening, both in business and culturally, but at the same time, it’s small enough that you get to know people quickly. There’s a vibrancy to the city, as well as variety and diversity which bring so many positive benefits in terms of cultural experiences. There’s also a sense of wider community; like bumping into three people on the way to the station or having a conversation with someone at the bus stop, and that is something to be celebrated.

What would you say to people who are thinking about supporting Leeds Community Foundation?

Just do it! What I like about the Leeds Community Foundation, specifically, is that it tries to provide the space to allow smaller organisations to thrive. At the same time, it avoids trying to take over or tell them what to do. It steers donations to make sure funds are allocated in a constructive way and avoids short term funding. The Foundation takes a medium to longer-term view, which I know a lot of charities struggle with. We’re very lucky to have a local Foundation that places local giving at the forefront and helps businesses, as well as individuals, to make a meaningful impact.

Leeds Community Foundation is building a fairer Leeds for everyone. We work with people, businesses, and strategic partners who care about Leeds, to invest in locally-rooted community organisations working for the benefit of people in our city. Together, we have a collective social impact, working towards a brighter future for everyone.

If you’re thinking about how you could support Leeds Community Foundation, you can learn more about Membership here.