Our Story

Shaping a hopeful future together

The I61 Foundation was created in 2019 by Tam Geldenhuys, who has decade-long experience volunteering in vulnerable communities in Mauritius. Tam identified the challenges NPOs face in securing funds and discovered that many funders lacked the time and capacity to assess NPOs’ needs and ensure the effective use of funds. Tam recognised that these challenges often delayed assistance or limited the scope of positive change within vulnerable communities, prolonging their hardships. 

Taking inspiration from the scripture, Isaiah 61, Tam joined forces with five community-driven individuals to form the I61 Foundation, bridging the gap between NPOs and funders by providing comprehensive guidance and support throughout the project process.

Together with its partners, the I61 Foundation is dedicated to creating a collective impact by forging partnerships between NPOs and funders, fostering goodwill in Mauritius and beyond while addressing poverty, education, social justice, and crisis support.

“Bringing hope to vulnerable communities through our mission to Restore, Renew and Rebuild
Tam Geldenhuys
Founder

Mission

Philosophy

Values

Giving a Voice to the Voiceless

The I61 Foundation is dedicated to providing sustainable solutions that uplift and restore communities burdened by poverty and injustice. During times of crisis, we also facilitate projects that renew and rebuild affected communities.

Lastly, I61 Foundation drives access to quality education ensuring everyone has the opportunity to excel and create a better future for themselves.

By connecting funders with carefully selected NPO projects that align with their vision and purpose, we ensure successful partnerships and lasting positive outcomes. 

At the heart of our mission lies the core principle of transparency and significant impact

Restore. Renew. Rebuild.

Isaiah 61:1-4

Our mission is driven by the scripture from Isaiah 61:4-1. It is the heart and passion behind I61 Foundation.


“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion – to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendour. They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations.”

Source: NIV Bible

INTEGRITY
We adhere to rigorous standards of transparency and accountability in our collaborations with both funders and NPOs.

COLLABORATION
We have faith in the strength of collaborative efforts and foster partnerships that catalyse sustainable transformation.

IMPACT
We focus on initiatives and organisations that deliver measurable results, ensuring that the contributions made by our funders support enduring change.
INNOVATION
We continually seek out new approaches and technologies to improve our platform and services, making it easier for funders and NPOs to connect and succeed.
INCLUSIVITY
We embrace diversity and strive to create a space where all voices are heard, valued, and supported.

Our Team

Our people embody the values that make I61 Foundation a trusted and effective organisation

At I61 Foundation, our team is the backbone of our organisation, connecting our partners and activating the support they need to impact the lives of vulnerable communities. Each individual brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives contributing to our collective success.

Foundation Board

Our board members play an essential role in shaping the foundation’s strategic direction and ensuring responsible stewardship of our resources

The I61 Foundation Board meets once a month to review funders and projects, ensuring the allocation of funds is aligned with the heart of the Foundation’s mission to restore, renew and rebuild vulnerable communities.

Advisory Board

Our trusted advisors and advocates provide input and recommendations that help shape our strategies and drive our mission forward

The I61 Foundation’s Advisory Board is a group of professionals, highly respected in their field of work, who lend their valuable insights, knowledge and expertise to help advance our mission. Our trusted advisors and advocates provide input and recommendations that help shape our strategies and drive our mission forward.

A Tribute to a Dear Friend and Founding Member

Graham Watkins

Thank you Graham, for believing in the I61 Foundation when it was still a dream. We are so grateful for the foundations of integrity, passion, and love you helped us set in place. Always ensuring we made the right decisions, not the easy ones. We will continue to honour you in all we do.

We Need Your Help

Take the first step today and help us transform lives, uplift communities and foster hope.

Your Story Starts Here

Together we can be the change the world needs

Poverty Alleviation
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EDUCATION FOR ALL
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SOCIAL JUSTICE
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CRISIS SUPPORT
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