Hartlepool-based charity The PFC Trust announces a new chair as it looks to expand across Teesside
A Hartlepool-based charity dedicated to making a real difference to the community has been announced as its new chair.
The PFC Trust has announced the appointment of Jennifer Beveridge in the leading role as it continues to expand its reach across the Tees Valley and beyond.
Jennifer, 46, succeeds founding chair Shaun Hope, who is stepping aside after years of dedicated leadership but will remain on the board as a trustee.
A resident of the region for over two decades, Jennifer plans to bring a wealth of business acumen and passion for community synergy to the role.
Her appointment comes following a "three-year apprenticeship" as a trustee, during which she immersed herself in the challenges facing Hartlepool and the wider Teesside area.
“I am exceptionally proud to be in this role," said Jennifer. “I’m not trying to fill those big shoes, but I can come in with my own perspective.
“My focus is simple: I want us to look outside of ourselves with a sharp focus on the community. We want to find those who need support to build on the fantastic stuff already happening.
“Our model is to raise funds, help deserving causes, and ensure that the experts already doing good work in the community can become sustainable.”
Her journey with the PFC Trust began three years ago, sparked by a friendship with the charity’s founder Frances Connolly.
One of Jennifer’s primary goals as chair is to encourage organisations across the region to "park their own agendas" and collaborate for the greater good.
“I want to build on synergy,” she said. “We aren’t all on our own. Every organisation is passionate about its own direction, but greater synergy brings a greater impact to the community.”
Frances created the charity after winning the EuroMillions in 2019 to improve the lives and life chances of people in Hartlepool and the surrounding areas.
She expressed total confidence in Jennifer’s ability to lead the Trust into its next phase of growth.
Frances said: “Her business acumen and life experience are invaluable.
“Jen is wise enough to be a stabilising force, and I know the charity will grow from strength to strength under her watch as we help people become the best versions of themselves.”