When Alison Perrin first started with the Rotorua Energy Charitable Trust 15 years ago, it was with the goal of making a meaningful contribution to the Rotorua community.
Since then, she has helped thousands of Rotorua organisations and residents across the city, through her role as the Trust’s grants assessor; while earning a reputation as “the face” of the Trust.
Now, as Alison prepares for retirement, and the Trust prepares to say farewell to one of its most valued assets, an opportunity has arisen for someone to continue the mahi.
She reflects with satisfaction on her time at the trust and the position, which has enabled her to get out into the local community and connect with “some amazing people”.
Alison joined the Trust after more than 12 years at the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, a background which she says helped immensely in the grants assessor role.
“I know how scary and frustrating the application process can be, so we’ve tried to make it as accessible as possible for applicants.”
She saw the role as an opportunity to better understand how everyone works together to make Rotorua such a great community.
“Roles like this don’t come up often in Rotorua and it is hard to believe that it has been 15 years.”
Alison says the most rewarding aspect of her role has been the people.
“Being a broadly targeted funding service, we tend to get a lot of groups coming back, so I have built some very special relationships.”
“The benefits to Rotorua have been immense. A lot of other cities are envious of our Rotorua Trust and its role in the community.”
As she prepares for retirement, Alison is going to miss the contact and satisfaction from helping the community, as well as working with co-funders.
She is looking forward to a different lifestyle – spending more time with family and friends. She also has a bucket-list of places to travel.
With all of her experience in the Rotorua community, Alison has one final message; to enjoy and value all the amazing work that goes on in the community, often unheralded.
“It’s about value and respect. Every little contribution makes a difference and most people are so passionate about what they are doing. It’s hard not to be humbled by the sacrifices people are making to help others.”
Alison wants to thank the Trust and all its Trustees and staff, both past and present, for their support.
“The last 15 years have been an incredible opportunity.”
Rotorua Trust chairman Stewart Edward says Alison has made a very significant contribution to the Rotorua community, assisting groups through the funding process.
“Alison is a very special person who has a close understanding of the Rotorua community and a genuine desire to help make good things happen. The Trust and our community have benefitted tremendously from her involvement and willingness to go the extra mile these past fifteen years. We wish her all the very best for her impending retirement”.