ECFI’s Theory of Change
Context
ECFI operates in a complex environment characterised by challenges such as the closing space for civil society, economic and demographic changes, reduced state involvement, low confidence in institutions, and diverse cultural, linguistic, and operational contexts.
Assumptions
ECFI believes that community foundations and the supporting infrastructure at national level can drive positive social change and cohesion, and that there is considerable untapped potential.
Actions
In order to accelerate development of the movement across Europe ECFI will:
- Provide connections for community foundations and the supporting infrastructure to foster collaboration and networking
- Facilitate peer learning opportunities to share experiences and best practices
- Serve as a knowledge hub, offering resources, thematic insights, and mapping of the field
- Stimulate thinking and action through thematic meetings, study visits, and other initiatives
- Convey success stories to a wider audience to raise awareness and inspire and build trust
- Help create a favourable operating environment in which community foundations can thrive
Outcomes
Through these actions, ECFI aims to achieve:
- Increased leverage of financial and other resources for community foundations
- Enhanced capability and capacity of community foundations and national support organisations
- A stronger and better connected European movement of community foundations
Impact
- Enhanced trust at personal and institutional levels
- More self-determination and empowerment
- Greater effectiveness in addressing social challenges and fostering cohesion
