Balkan Re-think Action Research. National research reports
The Re-think National Research Reports – Annex complements the Balkan Re-think synthesis by providing detailed country-level analyses from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Drawing on interviews, desk research, and practitioner insights, the annex explores how community foundations and support organisations navigate fragile civic environments, donor dependency, and limited capacity. It captures national specificities while reinforcing shared patterns around trust-building, local legitimacy, and the critical role of long-term support in transforming emerging initiatives into sustainable community-based institutions.
#AllIn2019, Community Foundations of Canada conference – Views from four European participants
The #AllIn2019 Community Foundations of Canada Conference brought together over 700 delegates—including nine from Europe—to explore belonging, leadership, and the future of philanthropy. Through honest dialogue and diverse voices, participants reflected on inclusion, youth engagement, and rethinking power dynamics in community work. European attendees shared insights on how Canadian experiences—such as the Vital Signs approach, endowment building, and Indigenous-led initiatives—can inspire greater trust, collaboration, and social justice in their own contexts. The event strengthened transatlantic connections and a shared sense of belonging within the global community foundation movement.
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.
Vital Signs – one step at a time
The Vital Signs approach helps community foundations use data to identify local needs and guide action for stronger, more connected communities. By combining research and civic dialogue, it supports foundations in taking on leadership roles and fostering collaboration with citizens, authorities, and donors. In Germany, the concept is being introduced through pilot meetings and studies, aiming to inspire data-driven philanthropy and link local efforts to the Sustainable Development Goals.
