The 17 SDGs (Annex 1,see below) provide a universal framework and call to action to promote prosperity while protecting the planet. It embraces a general commitment ‘to leave no-one behind’. This framework can help plan, implement, and monitor action. It offers a common language that facilitates better understanding and communication around issues of global concern. The scope of the Goals is such that it is hard to imagine that a community foundation could not be contributing in some way to one or several of them, in particular through the support of grass roots action and community empowerment.
Community foundations, being concerned with particular geographical areas, and having longterm institutional presence, are well placed to understand and address a complex array of interdependent issues. Through their ability to build and utilise physical, financial and human assets; their knowledge of the locality; and their role in building trust and fostering connections and relationships between people and institutions; community foundations are important players, and in some cases leaders, that can help drive transformation at local level. They therefore provide an important connection between local actions and global aspirations. By embracing the SDGs, and aligning with the Goals community foundations can demonstrate how their strategies and work are relevant and impactful – this can attract partners and funding; can motivate staff, board members and volunteers; and can consolidate the community foundation position as a connector between the public, private and non-governmental sectors in its territory. Various tools are available e.g. the SDG Funders Platform SDG Indicator Wizard and the Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors SDG Philanthropy Platform practical tools.
Contribute to telling the story
Alignment alone however merely shows what is being done already. When followed up with action – for example through the implementation of new programmes; new forms of collaboration; or doing things differently – then there is value added. We need your help in identifying this value added. We know it is there, but need you to provide the evidence. Please share with us:
1. How you use the SDGs in your work (e.g. to frame your local area needs analysis; to understanding of issues and planning for action; to make connections and / or work collaboratively with others; to work differently or to develop new initiatives etc);
2. What Goals you focus on;
3. And what difference has embracing the SDGs made to your organisation and to the lives of people and the environment in your area.
Your stories will be vital to highlighting the work of community foundations as unsung heroes of the SDGs. You can get some inspiration from the good practice examples published by the local solutions fund.
Contact: James Magowan, james@communityfoundations.eu
Annex 1:
The UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
GOAL 1: No Poverty
GOAL 2: Zero Hunger
GOAL 3: Good Health and Well-being
GOAL 4: Quality Education
GOAL 5: Gender Equality
GOAL 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
GOAL 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
GOAL 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
GOAL 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
GOAL 10: Reduced Inequality
GOAL 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
GOAL 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
GOAL 13: Climate Action
GOAL 14: Life Below Water
GOAL 15: Life on Land
GOAL 16: Peace and Justice Strong Institutions
GOAL 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal
