Empowering elders to make a difference.

The Elders Giving Back Awards provide financial support to elders leading and launching social initiatives.

For too long, society has underestimated the power of elders to drive meaningful change. We passionately believe that experience, wisdom, and a lifetime of learning are invaluable tools for shaping a better world.

That’s why we’ve launched the Elders Giving Back Awards to fund and support people over 60 who are leading socially-impactful projects or have brilliant new ideas for initiatives that can strengthen their communities.

  • Are you an elder leading a charitable initiative? Apply today for financial support to grow your work

  • Do you know somebody over 60 making a difference? Nominate them for an award

  • Applications close: 31th July 2025

  • Winners announced: 30th September 2025

Female elder helping in the community

About the Elders Giving Back Awards.

For over a decade, the Serlin Family Foundation has supported grassroots social initiatives. Now, we are dedicating our efforts to celebrating and empowering elders.

We know that elders are not done contributing – they have immense wisdom, experience, and insight that can drive positive social change. These awards are designed to:

  • Provide financial support to elders already running social initiatives

  • Encourage retirees with new ideas to take action

  • Change perceptions about the role of elders in society

By funding and celebrating these projects, we hope to inspire more elders to step forward and amplify their impact. Seeing what others in their 60s, 70s, and 80s are achieving can be a powerful motivator for all of us.

How it works

Step 1

Step 1:
Apply or Nominate

  • Elders can apply directly for an award to support their project

  • Family, friends, or colleagues can nominate an elder doing great work

Step 2

Step 2:
Award Selection & Funding

  • Applications will be reviewed by trustees and staff

  • Closing date for applications is 31st July 2025

  • Winners will be notified by 31st Octobe 2025

Step 3

Step 3:
Financial Support & Growth

  • Award recipients receive funding tailored to their project’s needs

  • Projects are monitored and reviewed every six months

The Awards Fund

Are you an elder leading a charitable project or do you have a social project you wish to initiate?

The awards fund is distributed in flexible ways based on impact and costs:

  • Awards of £6,000–£12,000 to support existing projects (three awards)

  • Launch grants of up to £6,000 to promote new projects (three grants)

  • Support grants of up to £1,000 for one-off projects (eight grants)

Read more about the award distribution details here.

Awards Eligibility & Criteria

  • Applicants must be over 60 years old

  • Applications from registered charities are not accepted

  • Groups or organisations may apply if a principal member is over 60

  • Awards are intended for projects within the UK (exceptions may be considered)

  • Projects will be monitored every six months to ensure impact

  • Applications will be reviewed by a panel of trustees and staff

  • The closing date for applications or nominations is 31st July 2025

  • For full Eligibility & Evaluation Criteria - as well as a list of suggested supporting documents – please view the Awards Terms & Conditions page

“The support from the Serlin Family Foundation has been truly life-changing. It has helped us bring people together, foster a sense of belonging, and offer hope to those facing hardship.”

Connecting Boroughs