LAYING THE FOUNDATIONS - The European Foundation Centre

chapter 1
founding the efc
25
(L – R) Francis Charhon,
Ragnhild von Keudell-
Niemeyer and Carlos
Monjardino
Points of agreement
Everyone gives a slightly different version of the
EFC’s foundation. However, all those who were
present in the EFC’s early years agree that colleagues
at that time were also close friends. White recounts: ‘Particularly
during the early days, a lot of friendships were formed, and you know it
doesn’t sound like much, but I think that’s very, very important. It means
you are willing to let down your hair . . . You’re willing to say things that ordinarily
you wouldn’t say to a stranger.’ Many feel that the tight relationships
formed through the EFC network are one of the organisation’s proudest
achievements. Üstün Ergüder of the Third Sector Foundation of Turkey
(TÜSEV) has been involved with the EFC since 1994 and most appreciates
‘the friendships you develop: I’ve come to meet people from all different
walks of life.’ These strong bonds have largely formed the basis which has
allowed the EFC to grow and mature. Charhon agrees: ‘The EFC created a
network of people, not only of organisations, but a network of people, who
are very committed and very confident.’ Today, they continue to be the cornerstone
of the organisation.
Photos on this page are taken
from the EFC 20th anniversary
conference, held 9 November
2009 in Berlin.
Centre: (L – R) Carlos
Monjardino and Raymond
Georis
Right: (L – R) John Richardson
and Charles Buchanan,
Fundação Luso-Americana
para o Desenvolvimento, an
EFC member since 1993