A simpler way to make a lasting difference

Betty Crowson gave regularly to causes she cared about. When reviewing her finances with her investment manager and tax adviser, she wanted to find a way to formalise her charitable giving. Her advisers suggested Foundation Scotland as a cost-effective alternative to setting up a private charitable trust.

By creating the Campbell Crowson Fund, Betty could choose which charities to support while leaving administration, compliance, and grant management to Foundation Scotland. Not only did this remove the financial and resources required of managing a separate charitable entity, it also removed the regulatory duties required of charity trustees. This also ensured that, with careful planning, we were able to create a flexible succession plan for Betty and her fund.

Although Betty has sadly passed away, her legacy continues. Since 2004, the fund has awarded more than £92,500 to community groups and charities across Scotland. Through careful management of her fund, Foundation Scotland continues to carry forward Betty’s dedication to improving health, supporting people with disabilities, and helping older people across Scotland.

A recent grant in action 

One of the organisations supported by the fund is Awaz – The Voice of the Community (AVOC). A grant of £1,847 helped cover the cost of a sessional worker coordinating a wellbeing project for 40 older men from ethnic minority backgrounds. Following the project, AVOC reported that it had been able to tackle isolation, strengthen confidence, and give men a renewed sense of purpose and belonging. 

Case Study

One participant joined the men’s group after his wife passed away. Living alone, with his children working long hours, he spent his days in silence and felt “invisible.”

At first, he was quiet and hesitant. Over time, he began to open up, discovering peers who understood the challenges of ageing, loneliness, and cultural barriers. Activities like light exercise, mindfulness sessions, and practical advice on pensions and community services helped him regain confidence and a sense of belonging.

Now, he is one of the group’s most active members - welcoming newcomers, encouraging participation, and organising small outings. His family has noticed the change too: he is more positive, engaged, and happy to share stories about his new friends.

In his words:

“Before this group, my days were empty. I felt forgotten. Now I look forward to Tuesdays — I have a place where I belong, where people listen and care. It has given me my life back.”

Through the Fund, Betty’s kindness continues to make a real difference. Her story shows how a thoughtful decision made during her lifetime is still improving lives today.

Making charitable giving simpler

Like Betty, many people want to create a lasting, positive impact in a way that feels thoughtful, manageable, and true to their values. Setting up a fund with Foundation Scotland, rather than creating an independent charitable entity, can offer a practical and flexible approach. As a charity ourselves, we take care of the regulatory responsibilities, tax relief, and financial administration. Our team also provides expert philanthropy advice and can support those who wish to give quietly or anonymously.

If you would like to explore your options with Foundation Scotland, please contact us at development@foundationscotland.org.uk.