The SDGs Are Good For Us
This workshop report explores how community foundations and their support organisations can use the Sustainable Development Goals as a strategic framework. It presents Northamptonshire Community Foundation’s experience of embedding the SDGs across its vision, strategy, donor engagement, partnerships, community conversations and impact reporting. The report also examines effective partnership models and identifies practical roles for support organisations in building capability, sharing evidence and helping community foundations connect local action with global goals.
Applying the 4Cs creatively: everyone can be a changemaker
This blog reflects on how Assifero used the 4Cs framework—Capacity, Capability, Connections and Credibility—to reshape its strategy, organisational mindset and approach to evaluation. It describes a shift from service delivery to systems change, from activities to processes, and from responding to needs to mobilising a wider range of assets. The article also shows how the framework supported more flexible funding practices, collective impact and Assifero’s development as a learning organisation.
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.
