Wellington Community Fund is sharing the news that Chiara LaRotonda and Sara Norling will be leaving the organisation.

Chiara and Sara have both made significant contributions to Wellington Community Fund and to the communities we serve, and we would like to acknowledge the impact of their mahi.

Chiara joined Wellington Community Fund in 2018 as Community Engagement and Funding Manager. Over more than seven years, she provided guidance to hundreds of organisations and contributed to the development and implementation of funding approaches, including the historic Climate Action, and LIFT funds. Chiara also supported the delivery of an equity-focused strategy and helped oversee the distribution of more than $16 million into the community.

Sara joined Wellington Community Fund in 2023 as Kaitakawaenga Māori. During her time with us, she played a key role in strengthening our Te Tiriti commitments and building relationships with mana whenua, taura here, and Māori-led organisations across the region. Her work has contributed to more than $2.4 million being distributed in ways that support Māori aspirations and embed partnership and equity more deeply within our grant making.

Chiara’s last day was 16 January, and Sara’s last day will be 10 February.

We are grateful for the commitment, professionalism, and care that Chiara and Sara have brought to their roles. We wish them both well in their next chapters.

Read more about HRA and General Grants.

If you have any questions for us, please email admin@wellingtoncommunityfund.org.nz.