Transparency

The “trust-based philanthropy” model adopted by the foundation for funding anti-violence centers

The Trust-Based Philanthropy approach represents an innovative and strategic model for promoting social change. Rooted in the principles of transparency, autonomy, and sustainability, this paradigm seeks to reduce bureaucracy and recognize the expertise of grantee organizations, which are treated as equal partners.

By offering multi-year, unrestricted support and non-financial assistance, the model enables long-term collaborative relationships and strengthens the social capital of communities. In the Italian context, adopting this model requires a significant cultural shift, yet it presents a unique opportunity to build a more equitable, participatory, and effective philanthropic system in response to the complex challenges of our time.

The feminist funding philosophy, based on trust-based philanthropy, is grounded in the belief that gender justice is achieved not only through financial support, but also through the transformation of power dynamics. The goal is to transform power structures, strengthen local leadership, and ensure equity in decision-making, creating lasting and sustainable impact.

 

 

Selection criteria for beneficiary anti-violence centers

Below are the criteria used by the Foundation to identify anti-violence centers eligible for funding. However, access to the Foundation’s resources is not strictly conditional on meeting all the listed requirements.
Each request is evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Board, which carefully examines each situation in relation to the Foundation’s mission and the expected impact of the proposed interventions. This flexible approach allows for a more equitable and effective response to the specific needs of different organizations and contexts.

Selection Criteria:

Alignment with the Foundation’s mission and values, including the explicit aim (as stated in the organization’s statutes) of preventing and combating male violence against women as a core objective.

Origins in feminist experiences and women’s self-determination practices, operating from a gender perspective and in line with human rights principles. The organization must offer shelter, protection, and support based on the recognition of each woman’s lived experience and aimed at promoting her autonomy. The intervention must be:

  • Relationship-centered,

  • Respectful of the woman’s choices, timing, and competencies,

  • Never imposing solutions,

  • Based on the belief in the woman’s ability to choose, decide, and act.

  • Guiding principles should include:
  • Trust in women and their decision-making capacity,
  • Rejection of all forms of secondary victimization,
  • Confidentiality, anonymity, and free access to services,
  • Teamwork and continuous training of staff,
  • Collaboration with public and private services, only when they respect principles of self-determination and non-violence.
  • Operating in socially and economically deprived areas, particularly where there are:
  • High female unemployment rates,
  • Inadequate or ineffective public service systems,
  • Greater difficulty in accessing public resources allocated to anti-violence centers.
  • Having a stable organizational and administrative structure, capable of providing accurate and timely financial reporting.
  • A proven track record in managing complex projects and resources.
  • Experience in implementing innovative projects for women’s autonomy and local development.
  • Operating in areas where new facilities are needed due to a lack of services dedicated to the reception and support of women.

 

StatuteDeed of Incorporation 2024 Financial Statement   2024 Social Report