Our Friend, Peter Kara

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Peter Kara, a cherished friend of Milton Keynes Community Foundation and one of the community's most dedicated philanthropists, passed away last Wednesday.

Peter was a man of remarkable generosity, wisdom, and integrity. He devoted much of his life to supporting charitable causes and strengthening the Milton Keynes community, inspiring others through both his actions and his belief in the power of philanthropy.

Peter's connection with Milton Keynes Community Foundation spanned more than three decades and left an extraordinary legacy. Appointed as a Trustee in 1995, he went on to serve as Chair of the Foundation, Chair of our Property Committee, and later Vice-President. He was also a longstanding fundholder, and a tireless advocate and ambassador for our work.

Peter first became involved with the Foundation through his friend and neighbour, former Chief Executive Tim Hill, supporting the team to assess the financial viability of organisations applying for grants. What began as practical support quickly developed into a steadfast commitment to the values and vision of community philanthropy. Throughout his time with the Foundation, Peter championed the idea that everyone has a role to play in creating a fairer, stronger community, and much of his work in our city stemmed from that belief.

A qualified accountant with years of experience in management buyouts and investment in trading companies, he also served for many years on the boards of local NHS organisations. He had a remarkable ability to get to the heart of complex issues and offer thoughtful, constructive challenge. His contribution as a trustee, chair and vice-president was immense, helping to shape the Foundation and strengthen its impact across Milton Keynes.

But those achievements tell only part of the story.

He was a strategic thinker, but also kind, dignified, and deeply caring. He spoke honestly and acted with conviction. A true community champion, Peter was someone people trusted, respected, and turned to for advice.

Beyond his involvement with the Foundation, he served as a trustee and board member for many local organisations and gave his time generously to countless causes in the city. Even into his eighties, he continued to find new ways to support charities, recently taking part in a fundraising wing walk for the Safety Centre.

His presence at our events, his warm smile, his encouragement, and positivity brought so much to our organisation.

His passing feels particularly poignant as he was due to speak at our Summer Reception on the day he died. Many of us had been looking forward to seeing and hearing from him.

Milton Keynes is a better place because of his generosity, leadership, and belief in the importance of helping others.

We will miss his kindness and friendship.

Our thoughts are with Peter's family, friends and all those whose lives were enriched by knowing him.