Potential of Philanthropy focus of Dublin Summit

 

Thirty Community Foundation Chief Executives hosted by Community Foundation Ireland

Thirty community foundation leaders from around the world are gathering in Dublin and Belfast (25th-28th August 2026) to explore how strategic philanthropy can help communities respond to social, economic, technological and environmental change.

Four delegates of the Global Summit of Community Foundation Leaders in Malahide Dublin, the backdrop is the sea and a marina of boats. On the left in a blue jacket is Sharon Avery of Toronto Foundation, Tonia Wellons of Greater Washington Foundation, Ted Howard of Democracy Collaborative and Denise Charlton of Community Foundation Ireland.
Four delegates of the Global Summit of Community Foundation Leaders in Malahide Dublin, Sharon Avery of Toronto Foundation, Tonia Wellons of Greater Washington Foundation, Ted Howard of Democracy Collaborative and Denise Charlton of Community Foundation Ireland.

Hosted by Community Foundation Ireland, a special Global Leaders’ Summit is bringing together chief executives of community foundations from Canada, the United States, The UK, Palestine, Germany, Romania and other countries.

The forum offers and opportunity for leaders to share what they are seeing in their communities, learn from practical experience in different countries and strengthen international collaboration between community foundations.

Community foundations combine local knowledge, trusted relationships and philanthropy to support responses shaped by the needs and priorities of communities. Discussions will examine how this model can contribute to stronger, more inclusive and resilient communities.

Areas of shared importance will include:

  • The Community Foundation Model in a Complex World
  • Artificial intelligence and technology
  • Community wealth building
  • Climate, nature and community resilience
  • Peacebuilding and community leadership

Welcoming delegates Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Ireland, said:

“Communities everywhere are facing complexities and challenges. Declining trust, the climate crisis and advances in artificial intelligence are global developments, but their effects are felt in people’s everyday lives.

Community foundations bring together local knowledge, trusted relationships and philanthropy.

This summit gives leaders an opportunity to share their experiences, to knowledge share and to learn.

By learning from one another, we can strengthen the role of strategic philanthropy in building trust, supporting local leadership and creating opportunities for people and places to thrive.”

The programme in Dublin and Belfast will combine expert contributions with peer learning and visits to community-led initiatives. It will allow delegates to consider global developments through the experience of local communities and to build relationships that support continued international learning and collaboration.

ENDS

Community Foundation Ireland

Community Foundation Ireland mobilises strategic philanthropy to advance equality, strengthen communities and protect climate and nature. A philanthropic hub, its priority pillars are People, Place and Planet.

People helps ensure everyone can live with dignity and feel part of their community and wider society.

Place means working with partners to support communities where everyone participates.

Planet is the Foundation’s response to the crisis in climate and nature at every level.

Community Foundation Ireland was established in 2000.