Cambridge lawyer Chris Belcher is our new chairman.  Chris, a partner with Mills & Reeve has been a trustee since 2011. He will be aided by new vice chairman Catherine Stewart, a Girton businesswoman and fundraiser.

Chris joined the CCF board in 2011 when he was introduced to the Foundation through his connection with the Mills & Reeve Community Fund that is administered by the Foundation. He heads the Private Tax team at Mills & Reeve and is a member of the firm’s Making a Difference committee for social responsibility.

He is also vice-chair of national charity The Silver Line. He read law at Cambridge University before spending 14 years working in London and returning to Cambridge in 2009. Outside the office Chris is a keen sportsman playing tennis and competing in triathlons.

Catherine became a trustee in November 2013 following the creation of a fund at CCF in memory of her late husband John who was an internet pioneer and keen cyclist and rower.

Chris said: “I am convinced of the merits of the Community Foundation model. I have seen first-hand how the expertise and local knowledge offered helps donors find, and engage with, projects which have a real impact in our county and beyond.

Catherine said: “The support and guidance offered by the Foundation helped me shape the focus and effectiveness of my Fund.”

Chris succeeds Peter Gutteridge who chaired the Foundation from 2009. Under Peter’s chairmanship, the Foundation saw significant growth. Endowed charitable funds set up by donors now stand at £5m. These endowed funds ensure there is a sustainable long term source of grant support for community projects into the future.