Five years after it was founded, the Ian and Shirley Norman Foundation says it is looking to the future.
The Hunter's philanthropic organisation, named for the late Ian and Shirley Norman, who worked tirelessly to successfully establish the retail business of Norman Ross followed by Harvey Norman, marked its fifth anniversary at City Hall on Thursday night.
Since its establishment in 2021, the foundation has built partnerships with 50 organisations across Australia, deliberately choosing close relationships and long-term support over one-off funding.
"We started the foundation five years ago with one goal: to change the world for the better. And we have never deviated from that goal," the foundation's founder and chairperson Tracy Norman said.
"So, we've spent those five years collecting the right partners to create the village to achieve that lofty goal. We've found some of the greatest change-makers from across the length and breadth of the country.
"It's a pleasure and a privilege to work closely with them to support and enable changes to lives, systems and ecosystems for a better place and a better planet."
In the past financial year, the foundation gave more than $5.8 million to partner organisations, taking its total giving to $19.5 million. A further $20.8 million has been committed, bringing total commitments so far to more than $40.3 million.
By its end date in 2034, the foundation aims to have directed more than $100 million through carefully chosen and strategic partnerships, backing organisations and initiatives that are actively tackling some of the most urgent challenges facing people and the planet.
The anniversary event included presentations by the foundation's partners - Bayley Arts, Boys to the Bush, LIVIN, White Box and the University of Newcastle - as well as a digital exhibition profiling partners from across the country.
Boys to the Bush CEO Adam DeMamiel said the foundation's support had allowed his organisation to support young men at times when they needed it most.
"Through this partnership, we've been able to keep young people engaged in mentoring and programs and ensure they stay connected to positive role models," he said.
"The impact goes far beyond participation. It's creating safer, stronger futures for young boys across our communities."
The foundation's work spans four areas of focus: being ecologically sound, protecting people from harm, walking together with traditional custodians, and empowering communities.
