Rotorua Trust 'there for whole community' says longtime member
After 18 years of involvement with the Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust, Jo-anne La Grouw says everything she’s been a part of with the trust has been a highlight.
The trust, operating as the Rotorua Trust, is holding an election this year, with 16 nominations received for six positions.
Those elected will have the important job of deciding where the trust should be investing funds and approving grants.
Jo-anne has not stood for reelection to the trust this year.
She says although there have not been any big changes within the trust over these years, the trust has evolved a lot, and areas of focus change depending on the needs of the community.
She has been involved over the 18 years in various different roles, and says she applied to be part of the trust because it was another way she could give back.
“I think everything the trust does is a highlight. I love being able to help the community in whatever way possible, right across the board.
“I think the community would be a lot poorer without it.
“What’s so lovely is, it gives $4 million into the community each year.
“The money the trust manages is community money. The trust is there for the whole community.”
Despite not standing for re-election to the trust this year, giving back to the community will continue to be a big focus for Jo-anne.
“I’m becoming more ageappropriate with what I support now, including on the council with Age Concern and becoming a volunteer at Parksyde.
“I’m also still strongly supporting the arts.”
Voting papers for the Rotorua Trust’s election have been sent via post to all those on the electoral roll, and voting has already opened .
There are three ways to vote — online voting, returned via post or hand delivery to the Trust office.
Voting closes at 12 noon on Saturday, November 19. ● Richard Anaru ● Gregg Brown ● Nick Chater ● Tāmati Coffey ● Catherine Cooney ● Stewart Edward ● Bryce Heard ● Mike Keefe ● Ashton Ledger ● Brett Marvelly ● Merepeka Raukawa-tait ● Robyn Skelton ● Nicola Smallwood ● Kahutapeka Ututaonga ● Fisher Wang ● Mercia Yates