AFS and GivingTuesday celebrate first National Philanthropy Encounter in Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Marking a historic step for the country’s philanthropic sector, the First National Philanthropy Encounter brought together over 100 representatives from foundations, businesses, universities, cooperation agencies, government entities, and community organizations on April 30.

Organized by AFS Intercultura and GivingTuesday, with the support of WINGS and the European Union, the event aimed to highlight and strengthen the contribution of philanthropic leadership to sustainable social transformation.

Held under the theme “Building the future of philanthropy together in the Dominican Republic,” the event marked a milestone for the country by gathering a wide diversity of stakeholders committed to strengthening the philanthropic ecosystem from a strategic, inclusive, and long-term perspective.

During the encounter, attendees were presented with the results of the first national mapping of philanthropic actors and support initiatives. Discussions were held on concrete proposals for strengthening the sector based on the 4C framework: Capacity, Competence, Connection, and Credibility. Spaces for intersectoral dialogue were also developed.

AFS Intercultura and GivingTuesday announced that, as a result of the day’s work, working commissions will be formed. These commissions, comprised of representatives from different sectors, will follow up on the proposals and co-create a roadmap to drive philanthropy as a motor for sustainable social transformation in the country.

The activity took place in Santo Domingo and saw participation from representatives hailing from Santiago, Espaillat, La Romana, Hermanas Mirabal, Puerto Plata, San Cristóbal, Samaná, among other locations. Panel discussions were moderated by leaders from academic, business, and community spheres. Key topics addressed included intersectoral collaboration, strategic social investment, the role of the state, strengthening local capacities, and the need for a culture of transparency and trust.

With this event, AFS Intercultura reaffirms its commitment to connecting people, ideas, and resources to generate positive impact. It also positions the Dominican Republic as a country with the potential to develop a structured, diverse, and common-good-oriented philanthropy.