As we reflect on 2025, I am both humbled and proud to present this report on behalf of the Board of the Lutheran Community Outreach Foundation. It has been a year defined not by ease, but by resilience; and it is that resilience, shown by every person connected to this organisation, that I wish to honour in this report.
The Funding Landscape
2025 tested the Foundation in ways few of us anticipated. Across the sector, funders scaled back their commitments, and many of our long-standing partners either reduced their contributions or withdrew funding altogether. This trend affected NPOs across South Africa, and we were not immune.
And yet, despite this constrained environment, the Foundation did not merely survive; it continued to deliver. This was possible only through disciplined financial management, creative fundraising, and the unwavering commitment of everyone who carries this mission forward. It is a testament to the strength of what we have built together that our impact on the ground did not shrink to match our shrinking funding.
Governance Update
I would like to formally note an important change to our Board composition this year. Following his retirement, Robert has transitioned from his role as an Executive Board member to that of a Non-Executive Board member. We are deeply grateful that Robert has chosen to remain part of this journey with us in this new capacity, and we look forward to continuing to benefit from his experience and institutional knowledge in the years ahead.
I am also pleased to report that this year we welcomed a 90% Board attendance rate at our meetings. This level of commitment from our Board members reflects the seriousness with which they approach their governance responsibilities, and it does not go unnoticed. Strong governance is the backbone of any organisation that wishes to remain accountable and effective, and this attendance record speaks well of where we stand.
Words of Thanks
None of what the Outreach Foundation achieved in 2025 was the work of any one person, and I have many people to thank.
To our Board members, thank you for your time, your wisdom, and your dedication to sound governance, even in a challenging year. Your commitment, reflected in our strong attendance this year, does not go unnoticed.
To our Executive Director, thank you for your steady leadership through a difficult funding climate. Your ability to navigate uncertainty while keeping our mission front and centre has been invaluable.
To our staff, thank you for your tireless work on the ground. You are the hands and feet of this organisation, and your commitment has enabled our beneficiaries to continue receiving support even when resources were tight.
And most importantly, to our donors, those who stayed with us, and those who found new ways to support us in a difficult year, thank you. Your generosity made the difference between a programme continuing and a programme closing. We do not take your trust in us for granted, and we remain committed to being good stewards of every contribution.
Looking Ahead
As we move into the next year, we do so with clear eyes about the challenges the sector continues to face, but also with confidence in the foundation, literally and figuratively, that we have built together. Thank you for walking this road with us.
Oupa Melato
Chairperson
Lutheran Community Outreach Foundation