One of the great perks of being part of TFN's international affiliates programme is experiencing the creativity, innovation, and the local flavor that our partners bring to our model. For the past year, we have worked closely with the Association of Spanish Foundations to share knowledge and resources to the newly formed, informal network of community foundations in Spain, with the goal to support the development of grassroots philanthropy.

Out of the initial cohort of foundations that expressed interest to pilot a first event, two had embarked on the challenge to bring the joy of collective giving through a live crowdfunding event. On two consecutive nights in early June Horta Sud Foundation and the Novessendes Foundation have invited the people in their community to witness a unique event. These are people who don’t see themselves as philanthropists, but as regular citizens that have a sense of responsibility for the well-being of their communities.

Horta Sud Foundation, located in the town of Torent, in the greater area of Valencia, has been serving the community for over 50 years and this was an opportunity for them to do something different, to bring together local companies, citizens, and local charities to raise funds in one evening, for projects that can bring positive change in their locality. On the evening of June 8^th, over 90 guests enjoyed canapes and a glass of wine and prepared to witness an event they didn’t necessarily know what to expect of. While the rain changed the setting from outdoor to indoor, it didn’t take away from the experience: people enjoyed being together, laughing at the emcee’s jokes and shedding tears when presenters talked passionately about their work.

The projects pitching raised funds for a sports club to provide an alternative leisure activity for disadvantaged children, while providing healthy snacks and a few scholarships. Another project aimed to provide cooking lessons to people with mental disabilities and a third ones to organise crafts and sewing workshops for people who suffer from addictions.

All projects had reached their targets and close to £14,000 was raised at the event, but most importantly the participants enthusiastically expressed that they look forward to the next event.

The second day, on June 9^th we were invited to attend the event organised by the Novessendes Foundation, situated in the town of Betxi, also in the greater area of Valencia. The foundation is a civic organisation that encourages social participation through local initiatives that aim to improve the well-being of the citizens as well as community progress.

With over 20 years of activity, the team of the Foundation has created deep relationships with respected members of the town and the event had a certain familiarity, authenticity, and intimacy specific of a close-knit community. Excellent local wine, a selection of Spanish cheeses and the best ‘jamon iberico’ there is, created the setting for participants to interact and enjoy a summer evening together.

The three projects pitching raised funds for a project to train clowns that work in children’s hospitals, a street art community project, and the creation of a youth centre by the actual youth. Participants quickly joined in the ‘game of matching’ funds and challenged each other to give, raising £10,000 pounds for the three projects. The event was a success in many ways, raising support for local initiatives, challenging the foundation to try something new and showing once again that people can rally behind good causes no matter the personal differences. 

Watch this great video on YouTube to get a sense of the joy and impact these two events brought to their communities. We are extremely proud, and we value their hard work, their professionalism and commitment to the wellbeing of their communities and we look forward to continue this partnership. 

Mihaela Giurgiu, International Collaborator 

For any questions on TFN's International Network, get in touch with Mihaela by email here.