An inspiring day with leaders from many European Community Foundations

The Two Ridings team were privileged to spend the day with delegates from the European Community Foundation Initiative (ECFI). They had travelled from all corners of Europe to join us ahead of the UK Community Foundations (UKCF) Conference in Harrogate. Coming together in York, we explored the role of philanthropy in building resilient, inclusive and sustainable communities.

Delegates from 20 countries joined us, with representatives from Finland, Romania, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Bosnia, Poland, Belgium, Croatia, Albania, Spain, Italy, Austria, Serbia, Latvia, Slovakia, Ukraine, Germany, Georgia, and the Czech Republic. It was a wonderful and fascinating collaboration investigating our shared goals; with every participant bringing unique insights and experiences to the table.

We started the day with some fun warm-up activities setting an upbeat vibe for the discussions that lay ahead. We moved into working groups, diving into deep discussions around grants, effective fundraising strategies and the art of building partnerships, inspiring each other, exchanging ideas and learning.

The Two Ridings team shared their story and way of working and listened to the experiences shared by others. The day brought about rich conversations and perspectives, emphasising the importance of collaboration in creating positive change in our communities, all over the world.

After lunch, the group set off on a “Health and Wealth” tour of York led by  Good Organisation . This award-winning York Community Interest Company supports marginalised people to participate in and benefit from tourism in York. Their engaging tour guides bring personal experience of inequality and exclusion. It was eye-opening to experience York’s history through a different lens.

As the day ended, our new friends boarded the train to Harrogate, excited for the discussions and learning opportunities that awaited them at the UKCF Conference.

In the evening, they visited Open Country, a charity funded by Two Ridings that has spent over 30 years organising countryside activities, making it possible for hundreds of people with disabilities to access and enjoy the great outdoors.

This day was not just about sharing knowledge; it was about building connections and inspiring one another. We left feeling invigorated and hopeful, looking forward to the conversations that will continue at the conference and into the future.