One woman's vision: a legacy that lives on

In 2007, Miss C set up a fund with Foundation Scotland after being introduced by her sister and tax adviser. She wanted to make a real difference in communities across Edinburgh, East Lothian, Lanarkshire, and the Scottish Borders. Her passion lay in supporting charitable projects that bring joy to young children, older people, and people living with disabilities or health conditions.  

When she passed away in 2013, Miss C left a legacy gift to be added to her fund. Today, more than a decade later, her fund continues supporting the causes and communities she cared about. Over £54,300 has been awarded to charitable projects so far. In 2024 alone, the fund contributed to sing-along coffee morning sessions and sports activities for older people, plus a choir supporting people with respiratory conditions.

There’s much we can learn from Miss C’s story.  

• Be as specific or as broad as you like. Miss C chose particular regions and themes, but you might focus on a single cause, a specific community, or give Foundation Scotland flexibility to respond to changing needs.
• Start now and add later. Establishing a fund during your lifetime doesn't mean you can't enhance it through your will. Many people find this gives them confidence and control.
• Structure the fund for lasting impact. An endowment fund means your gift keeps working long after you're gone. Other options include expendable funds that distribute the full amount over time, or flow-through funds that grant money as it comes in.  

Taking the First Step

Miss C's journey began with a referral. Others may begin with a phone call, an email, or a conversation with someone they trust.

We understand this is a personal journey that requires sensitivity and expertise. We can help you explore what type of fund might suit your goals, understand how your fund will work in practice, develop clear guidelines that reflect your priorities and ensure your legacy gift is structured to have maximum impact.

We share more information about leaving a gift in your will here. If you have any questions or would like to discuss setting up your own fund, please contact our team: development@foundationscotland.org.uk