Strengthening Community and Institutionalized Philanthropy in Ecuador

Alejandra Gómez, Emerging Leader, International Fellows Program ~ 2008

Abstract

In this paper, Alejandra Gómez asks whether the concept of community foundations can be adapted to Ecuador´s social, political and economic context. Gómez outlines the characteristics and work of civil society organizations in Ecuador, the legislation that pertains to them and the relationship between civil society and the private and government sectors. Additionally, Gómez considers international models of community philanthropy that have been successful in societies where legal, cultural and economic contexts presented considerable challenges to community foundations. Gomez’s case studies range from the Slovakian Presov Community Foundation to the Kenyan Community Development Foundation. Latin American experiences in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Mexico have been included for comparison with Ecuador.

Drawing from the case studies presented, Gómez recommends a series of steps for community foundations in Ecuador, including strengthening local community assets, revitalizing cultural traditions of philanthropy and private giving, collaborating with the private, government and civil society sector, and recruiting diverse key community members to empower local identity within a foundation.

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