Workshops

Community, Connection & Collective Impact: The Power of Local Philanthropy

Keirunga Gardens Arts and Crafts Society Inc. / Keirunga Creative Arts Venue

Hawkes Bay

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27 Oct 2026, 10:00am–12:00pm

Tuesday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

$55.00 per person

Session Abstract: Community, Connection & Collective Impact: The Power of Local Philanthropy

This session explores how community philanthropy is quietly transforming regions like Hawke’s Bay by turning generosity into long-term, locally driven impact. Drawing on examples from the Hawke’s Bay Foundation, we’ll look at how collective giving models pool resources from everyday donors and philanthropic partners to build permanent funds that support community priorities now and into the future. The discussion will unpack the evolving role of philanthropy in addressing inequality, strengthening social cohesion, and enabling communities to respond to change with resilience and agency. It will also invite reflection on legacy, purpose, and the ways individuals can meaningfully contribute to the wellbeing of the place they call home.

Key Takeaways

Discover how local philanthropy and collective giving can strengthen communities, address inequality and create lasting positive change.
Explore how individuals can contribute to their region’s future through generosity, shared purpose and meaningful community involvement.

Date: Tuesday 27th October

Time & format: The workshop will start at 10am, a bathroom break at 11, followed by a lively facilitated discussion to answer all your curious questions. The workshop will finish at 12pm.

Location: The Nelson Theatre, Keirunga Creative Arts Venue, 6 Puflett Road, Havelock North 4130

Parking: There is plenty of free parking outside the venue.

About the expert

Alesha Hope

Alesha Hope is Executive Officer of Hawke’s Bay Foundation, leading the region’s community foundation to grow long-term philanthropic investment across Hawke’s Bay. With more than a decade of experience in fundraising, philanthropy, and strategic donor engagement across New Zealand and Australia, Alesha brings a strong understanding of how communities, donors, and organisations can work together to create lasting impact.

After 11 years in Sydney — first in institutional banking and later in the philanthropy and fundraising sector — Alesha returned home to Hawke’s Bay in 2020 to be closer to whānau and bring the experience gained offshore back to local community impact. Her work focuses on building trusted partnerships, strengthening local giving, and developing sustainable funding approaches that support resilient communities — particularly in times of challenge and recovery.

Originally from an orcharding family in Twyford, Alesha now lives in Central Hawke’s Bay with her partner and three children.