In 2023, the Acorn Foundation celebrates 20 years of connecting generous people who care with causes that matter.

Over the years, hundreds of donors have enabled the foundation to distribute more than $13 million to community organisations in the Western Bay of Plenty. In February and March, Acorn is running their annual Give Back and Get Back campaign to highlight the tax benefits that can be gained this year by supporting the community before March 31.

'More and more, we've found that many of our donors like to support their favourite causes at this time of year to receive an immediate tax credit,” says Acorn CEO Lori Luke.

Generous locals set up endowment funds with Acorn to support causes in the community that are close to their hearts. The capital in the fund is invested in perpetuity, with a portion of the investment income distributed annually. Donors get to choose whether they name specific charities, choose a cause or causes that they support or leave the money unrestricted.

'It's important to understand that community gifting is not just for the wealthy; most Acorn supporters are very modest people who are passionate about this region,” says Lori.

People give to the causes that they value most; the 33.3 per cent tax credit this year just provides a really nice incentive to act before March 31.

For more information on how to support the Western Bay of Plenty, visit: www.acornfoundation.org.nz