Community Philanthropy – A Radical Force Beyond Aid.
Community philanthropy is rising as a radical and resilient force for development—one that centers local assets, voices, and collective action. As Dana R.H. Doan puts it, it’s a model that builds and sustains strong communities by tapping into local resources and amplifying local agency. More than just mobilizing funds, community philanthropy activates skills, knowledge, networks, and trust to tackle complex societal issues from the inside out. In a time when foreign aid is shrinking, this approach is becoming not only relevant but necessary.
These themes shaped the May 2025 webinar co-hosted by the Giving for Change Alliance and Alliance Magazine, where speakers like Grace Maingi, Yasmin Morais, Ese Emerhi, and Nour Nusseibeh challenged practitioners to reimagine development through solidarity rather than dependence. Participants were reminded that communities are not empty vessels waiting to be filled but powerful catalysts for their own change. The CivLegacy Foundation’s participation underscored its ongoing commitment to shifting power, amplifying domestic giving, and nurturing local ecosystems that prioritize ownership, trust, and sustainability.