Re-thinking Approaches to Community Foundations Movement Building in the Balkans
Re-thinking approaches to community foundation movement building in the Balkans presents the synthesis of a multi-country action research initiative led by ECFI and partner support organisations in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Serbia. The report examines how community foundations are developing under conditions of political pressure, donor dependency, and shrinking civic space. Using the 4Cs framework—capacity, capability, credibility, and connections—it identifies key paradoxes of fragility and resilience, and offers strategic recommendations for consolidating existing foundations, strengthening support organisations, and building a sustainable, trust-based regional movement.
Bridging communities through philanthropy: insights from a study visit to Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina
In July representatives from Local Action Hubs (prospective community foundations) from North Macedonia, along with the support organisation, Association Konekt, took part in a study visit to Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. They engaged with the Trag Foundation, foundation leaders, community members, and local stakeholders to learn from diverse models of grassroots action explored how community foundations are driving local development, fostering civic engagement, and cultivating a culture of philanthropy. Below Nikola
Trajkovski, Programme Associate, Association Konekt reflects on a deeply emotional, intellectual and transformative experience.
The Greater Manchester Take-aways
This report collates reflections from European delegates to the UKCF conference 2022 ‘Foundations for the Future: Acting now to shape tomorrow’ and associated study visit to the community foundation ‘Forever Manchester’.
Living the dream in Romania
James Magowan shares his reflections on the community foundation movement in Romania, the road they have travelled and the current challenges. His reflections were prompted by his attendance at the Romanian Federation of Community Foundations conference in October 2022.
