A boxing academy is Hastings continues to punch above its weight, thanks to continued support from the Hawke's Bay Foundation.
Boxers from the Giants Boxing Academy recently put on a special demonstration and sparring session for HB Foundation members as a way a of saying thanks and head coach Craig McDougall the foundation's support had been critical in the club's success.
"Hawke's Bay Foundation have funded us from the beginning almost six years ago. Yes, the finance that they offer is important to us and has been used for a variety of things in our program from necessary equipment to necessary support for members to paying basic overheads.
"One of the key points is their flexibility. It can be tough to get funding for some parts of the programme and at the right time. HBF allow us to work within a wide range of uses. That makes us less vulnerable to holes in the programme and to improved sustainability.
"Secondary but more importantly, HBF provide relationship, mentoring, support and opportunity outside of the giving. It is these qualities that allow some of our boys to step further toward their goals due to community connection and collaboration. HBF help to open doors and are exceptionally approachable when we need to ask for something.