Description
Latvian society is passive in participating in social processes. The project will develop community philanthropy and targeted donation traditions in Vidzeme by strengthening society’s, incl. youth, awareness of charity and volunteering, promote development of local communities by supporting locally important initiatives, which will be implemented by the residents. Main activities: promotion of community philanthropy and volunteerism, support and donations attraction for current needs of the local community in Valmiera region, realization and growth of “Lab of Youth Ideas”, development of Community Foundation Movement in Latvia. Main results: improved understanding of philanthropy, volunteering and participation opportunities for local development, improved collaboration among community foundations in Latvia, ensured systematic Fund work with donors, society and youth, thus strengthening the foundation’s long-term sustainability. Target group: local residents, NGOs members
Summary of project results
The aim of the Project was to promote community philanthropy and purposeful giving traditions in Vidzeme and Latvia by strengthening society’s, including youth, awareness of philanthropy and volunteerism. The project target group were 39 NGOs, 57 NGO members, 4 NGO employees, 12 volunteers, 48 young people and Apr. 3000 residents of Valmiera region. Major activities were: promotion of community philanthropy and volunteerism, fundraising and support for local community need in Valmiera region, realization and growth of “Lab of Youth Ideas” in Valmiera and Latvia as well as development of Community Foundation Movement in Latvia. Local initiatives, particularly funded by local donors, is main reason why foundation’s program is important and special in the context of EEA grants – through supporting daily work of philanthropy at Valmiera Region Community Foundation, local action was encouraged. Main result is sustainability of Valmiera Region Community Foundation to continue accumulating local resources for local needs, being basis for long-term development and community safety. This was built through fundraising activities, events for donors, wide media and electronic communication. Number of donors has increased and interaction with them has improved. Amount of given grants has risen, and via citizen forums/gatherings people have been involved to decide on community priorities. Two new community foundations are set up and were mentored. “Lab of Youth Ideas” was strongly developed in Valmiera and three other communities – awareness of philanthropy and entrepreneurial spirit was and will be built among youth.
Summary of bilateral results