Community mapping and engagement – a sociologist’s perspective and practice
This piece presents a practical approach to community mapping and engagement developed by Galați Community Foundation in collaboration with ISCOADA. Combining surveys, interviews, and facilitated community dialogues, the process helped identify local needs, assets, and opportunities for collaboration across sectors. Beyond data collection, it strengthened relationships, invited new actors into the ecosystem, and reinforced the foundation’s role as a connector. The experience highlights listening, openness, and participation as key drivers of meaningful community engagement.
Community Foundations in Europe: State of the Field 2022
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the community foundation field across Europe in 2022. Based on research and consultation with national support organisations, it presents the development, scale and diversity of the movement, including 851 community foundations in 22 countries and 32 infrastructure organisations. Country profiles illustrate different models, local contexts and stages of development, while the report also examines community leadership, crisis response, collaboration, local philanthropy and connections to the Sustainable Development Goals.
From Responsive to Strategic Grantmaking: Lessons from Galati Community Foundation
This paper reflects on Galati Community Foundation’s journey from responding to immediate opportunities towards developing a more intentional and strategic approach to grantmaking. Drawing on organisational experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, it explores strategic planning, community mapping, leadership, capacity building and the balance between responsive and proactive philanthropy. The publication also introduces practical tools and frameworks that can help community foundations strengthen their grantmaking, deepen community engagement and increase their long-term impact.
