An investment of time and money pays off in Romania
George Gurescu from ARC (Romania) recounts the success of the Community Foundations Development Program, which led to the creation of two new community foundations in Buzău and Vâlcea—raising the national total to 18. Over 18 months, ARC provided intensive mentorship, peer exchange, and financial support, combining trust-based relationships with tailored capacity-building. Local initiative groups, supported by Mott and the Romanian-American Foundation, mobilised residents and diaspora donors to fundraise and form new foundations—strengthening Romania’s community philanthropy movement and expanding its national reach.
ECFI Guide: Community Foundations in Romania
The Guide to Community Foundations in Romania traces the rapid development of a strong community philanthropy movement since 2008. Initiated by the Association for Community Relations (ARC), it highlights how local leaders, donors, and citizens have built 16 foundations serving nearly half of Romania’s population. The publication showcases stories of civic renewal, diaspora engagement, education funds, and youth-led initiatives—revealing how trust, local pride, and cooperation are revitalising communities and strengthening Romania’s social fabric.
