Our Supporters:
WRK Digital

WRK Digital is a technology recruiter, partnering with the most exciting companies to build and scale their technology teams. They believe in being a trusted, passionate and authentic business.

We spoke to their Managing Director, Will Parker, about their support for Leeds Community Foundation and why they want to invest in Leeds. 

 

How have you been involved with Leeds Community Foundation? 

We have been involved as a sponsor to Leeds Community Foundation since we started our business in 2022. We have attended events, both held by Leeds Community Foundation and ones the Foundation has spoken at. Throughout 2023 we are hoping to find opportunities for us to work closer together and give the charity access to anything we are good at, that would add value too and support their community. 

 

How important is social value to you? 

Social Value is hugely important to me personally and something WRK digital is serious about impacting. The impact social value has on us as people, our culture, happiness, the wider city and personal lives make it a top priority for us as a business and to ensure we are contributing back to the ecosystem that has given us all the opportunities we have enjoyed. 

 

What community issues are important to you? 

We all interact with the community differently, however reflecting on the city and our experiences when talking to people, homelessness / housing problems, educational pathways and greenspace are the key areas we would like to impact through our partnership with Leeds Community Foundation. 

 

Has the pandemic altered the way you view investment into communities? 

Possibly, we are a start-up business in the City, and our perspective has been polarised by the importance of “giving back” to your community. We are supporting of bigger and more complex community work, however we are keen to ensure our focus remains on the city we all love living & working in, and ensuring the re-investment we make is in an area where maximum impact can be done. Being local simply means we are able to bring a more emotional connection with the work. 

 

What makes Leeds a unique city? 

Vibrancy, collaboration and access.

 

Have you got any advice for organisations that are looking to support Leeds Community Foundation? 

Spend time understanding what is important to you as a business, then spend time with Leeds Community Foundation, attend events, and speak with their partners to ensure your goals align. 

 

Leeds Community Foundation creates opportunities for all by working with partners to make a positive impact within communities across Leeds and Bradford. We do this by generating and investing philanthropic giving as well as maximising statutory funding to deliver grants and provide trusted expertise into Community Organisations, benefitting thousands of local people. 

 

Read more about Leeds Community Foundation Membership here.