The Bermuda Community Foundation donated nearly $1.3 million to good causes in 2016-17.

The foundation, formed four years ago to “create an enduring source of funds for ever dedicated to the good of Bermuda”, provided support to 99 not-for-profit programmes and facilitated 263 grants.

Its annual report also noted that it has also developed a quality-of-life report, created an online resource for development and protection of young children and remained one of just 46 community foundations worldwide awarded the prestigious UK Community Foundations accreditation.

Myra Virgil, the foundation’s managing director, said: “Already we are ahead of anticipated targets for an organisation of this age.

“While this is encouraging, we will not be complacent as there’s a long way to go.”

Ms Virgil added: “BCF probably won’t be in the financial position necessary to support sustainability for Bermuda’s nonprofit sector until we have completed a couple of decades of activity.

“However, while the funds build, there is plenty we can do. Facilitating growth in philanthropy is our mandate and in this regard, our plans to inform and build trust among potential donors will be crucial.

“For example, evaluating what the community sees as primary concerns for Bermuda today and balancing that information with where resources are currently being directed is a valuable service provided through our new Vital Signs initiative.

“This enables us to take the pulse of the community, identify needs and concerns, and ultimately provides data to donors to assist them to direct their giving most effectively.”

Peter Durhager, BCF chairman, said the report “demonstrates the expanding services we are developing and the ever-increasing people and organisations coming on board.

“I’d like to thank all those who have worked with us to move the needle on community support this year — donors, fundholders, volunteer professionals, board members, and Dr Virgil who leads the team.

“The importance of what you do should not be underestimated.”

The report can be downloaded at www.bcf.bm.