The unstoppable Italian Community Foundations Movement
This article celebrates the expansion of the Italian community foundation movement, highlighting four newly established organisations in Milan, Agrigento & Trapani, Valsesia, and Parma. Supported by Assifero, these foundations exemplify the diversity and vitality of community philanthropy in Italy—from youth-led social enterprises in Sicily to Alpine collaborations in Piedmont. Each emerged from deep local engagement, blending civic initiative, donor partnerships, and institutional support from foundations like Cariplo. Together, they demonstrate how Italian community foundations are fostering inclusion, participation, and sustainable local development across the country.
SDGs and Vital Signs – a powerful combination to shape a leadership role (North Milan Greater Area Foundation)
The North Milan Greater Area Foundation (NMGAF) has become a pioneer in Italy by linking the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with the Vital Signs approach. Working with the University of Milan-Bicocca, it gathered community data, facilitated focus groups, and created a shared agenda for action. By translating global goals into local indicators, NMGAF empowered NGOs and municipalities to align their work with the SDGs—turning abstract principles into practical community action. The foundation is now recognised as a trusted local leader and hub for knowledge and collaboration.
How are the SDGs relevant to community foundations?
The paper How are the SDGs relevant to community foundations? highlights how community foundations connect local action with global goals. Their place-based knowledge, trust-building capacity, and cross-sector partnerships make them powerful agents for sustainable development. By aligning their strategies with the SDGs, community foundations can better demonstrate impact, attract partners, and strengthen legitimacy. Embracing the SDGs not only frames existing work but inspires new collaborations and innovations that link community well-being with global responsibility.
