CF2CF Exchange between Pécs and Mureș Community Foundations
This report documents a peer exchange between Pécs Community Foundation and Mureș Community Foundation focused on community fundraising and organisational development. Through visits to a Giving Circle in Pécs and the Bikeathon in Târgu Mureș, participants explored event design, donor engagement, volunteer involvement, professional staffing, communications and cooperation with businesses and local authorities. The report also reflects on how large-scale fundraising events can strengthen local participation, visibility and long-term sustainability.
From inside Ukraine
This blog offers a first-hand account of how Ukrainian community foundations responded during the first months of Russia’s full-scale invasion. It describes their rapid mobilisation to support civilians, displaced people, volunteers, hospitals and local defence efforts, while maintaining social cohesion and community resilience. The article also highlights the coordinating role of the National Network for the Development of Local Philanthropy and presents practical examples of humanitarian, cultural, medical and housing initiatives.
Community Foundations and Refugees
This report captures learning from an ECFI meeting on how community foundations responded to the refugee crisis following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Drawing on experiences from Romania, Poland and Germany, it examines operational pressures, volunteer mobilisation, fundraising, cooperation with public bodies and the need for long-term integration strategies. It also highlights the distinctive value of community foundations as trusted local institutions able to act quickly, connect stakeholders and combine local knowledge with national and international support.
Motivation and Group Dynamics in Emerging Community Foundations
Drawing on interviews with members of five Hungarian community foundations, this paper examines the motivational factors that influence how new community foundations emerge and develop. It explores the role of group dynamics, leadership, shared values and early successes in sustaining volunteer engagement, while also reflecting on common organisational challenges such as decision-making, delegation and feedback. The publication offers practical insights for organisations supporting the development of community foundations and other place-based philanthropic initiatives.
