At the Len Reynolds Trust, we believe funding should be relational, not transactional. As part of our strategy, we are committed to challenging and transforming power dynamics in philanthropy, practising empathy in partnerships, and daring to be different in how we work.
Recently, one of the organisations we support shared their experience of working with us. With their permission, we’re sharing their reflections below.
“The experience was seamless.”
“Right from the beginning, the Trust has been a breeze to work with, enabling us to focus on doing the work as opposed to administrative oversight.
We met with the Trust and had a video chat to see if we were the right fit for each other. Once that was successful, we sent through a copy of a funding application we had already used for another funder (for the same project). The Trust took it, asked a few questions via email, and then submitted it to the Board on our behalf.
This was perhaps the most excellent funding process we have been through.”
Rather than requiring lengthy, bespoke applications, our approach is conversation-based and relationship-led. We do our own due diligence wherever possible and only ask for information we genuinely need. This partner shared that, in total, they spent around one hour of substantive work on their application.
“The ease of the process is not to show disrespect towards the Trust. I understand organisations need to prove themselves and submit documents for legal compliance. What I respect the Len Reynolds Trust for is that it enables such a degree of flexibility in its application process, without compromising on the information it needs and the integrity of its process. This reflects intention on their part, and we are thankful for it.”
How was this different from other funders?
“Other funders have demanded page after page of funding applications. Where the Len Reynolds Trust differs is that it was conversation-based. We did not have to spend hours developing a polished written proposal. That is not the case for other funders.”
As a family philanthropic trust, we have the flexibility to do things differently. We believe time is precious - especially for organisations working at the frontline of community change. Reducing unnecessary compliance is one way we seek to level the playing field and walk alongside our partners with manaakitanga.
The impact of funding
The funding is supporting an innovative and original project engaging Hamilton’s ethnic, religious, and LGBTI+ people of colour communities.
“This is a project that has never been undertaken in Aotearoa New Zealand before, and it is only because of the Trust’s support that we are able to do so.”
We are proud to support initiatives that fuel changemakers, strengthen social cohesion, and create safe and inclusive spaces in our communities - particularly where projects challenge discrimination and inequity.
Working from the Heart – and Working for Systems Change
This organisation offered this feedback to us but because they want to see philanthropy do better. They are passionate about influencing systems - including funding systems - so that community groups can spend less time proving themselves and more time creating change.
We share that aspiration.
At the Len Reynolds Trust, we are committed to advocacy and systems change. That means using our influence to challenge inequities, transform power dynamics within philanthropy, and back initiatives that shift structures - not just treat symptoms.
We also want to be honest: we do not fund many organisations. That is intentional.
Our strategy is tight and focused. We prioritise initiatives that align strongly with our commitment to Māori-led solutions, intergenerational wellbeing, social equity, environmental stewardship, and movement building in the Waikato. Because our focus is so clear, it allows us to work in a relational, flexible, high-trust way with the partners we do support.
We know this approach won’t work for everyone - and we won’t be the right fit for every organisation. But for those aligned with our strategy and values, it enables us to reduce compliance, build genuine relationships, and stand alongside groups who are driving transformative change.