‘Bringing People Together’: Compass Community Trust

This paper describes how the Compass Community Trust in Tauranga, New Zealand, has supported the development of a dynamic network of community and not-for-profit organizations, helping them to link with each other and with the business community, local district councils and funding agencies. The Trust provides management and networking assistance to hundreds of nonprofit organizations and is a hub for a variety of innovative partnerships. It has been instrumental in forming effective organizations to provide work experience for the long-term unemployed and to empower survivors of mental illness. In partnership with Tauranga District Council, Compass brought a neglected historic village back to life as the Compass Community Village, which houses more than 50 community groups as well as shops and restaurants. It is truly the heart of the community. More than 30 partnerships are key to the success and impact of the Compass Community Trust.

ISBN – 1-894159-77-2