Autohorn Fleet Services has announced the launch of the Richard Baines Foundation – a brand-new charitable organisation that aims to make a positive impact on local people and the community.
The York-based car hire experts and fleet services provider has kicked off the foundation by donating £1 million to honour the company’s late founder, after whom the foundation is named, who passed away in 2020.
The foundation was formally announced during Autohorn’s 30th birthday celebration attended by 250 invited guests from inside the business and across the local community.
What will the new foundation fund?
The new foundation will provide funding for charitable projects in York that are aligned with three guiding principles, reflecting Richard’s core values:
- Community: Supporting charities, care organisations, and healthcare groups that improve access to quality health and well-being services.
- Education: Helping young learners thrive by funding initiatives that enhance learning environments and opportunities, with the aim of giving every child the best start possible.
- Local development: Investing in York’s communities to build inclusion, connection, and local pride and empowering people to shape a brighter city.
Speaking about the launch of the Richard Baines Foundation, Lee Underwood, Managing Director of Autohorn Fleet Services, said:
“Richard was known for his generosity and genuine care for people, and he built Autohorn on those values. The Richard Baines Foundation ensures his legacy continues by empowering charitable projects in York that reflect what mattered most to him – local community, education and development. We’re very proud to make this £1 million commitment to launch the foundation and look forward to supporting initiatives that deliver real and lasting impact.”
Caring for communities
Autohorn employees, working in partnership with the Baines family, will lead the charitable trust and jointly decide which projects to support. Charities and organisations in the York community will be able to apply for grants from October 2025.
In addition to Autohorn’s donation, the foundation will continue to grow through employee-led fundraising events and activities. Earlier this year, Autohorn staff raised £2,600 by participating in the York Dragon Boat Challenge, with proceeds going to the foundation.
