Between Vocation and Philanthropy

Social Work of the CECA sector, credit institutions and foundations that stand out for their solidarity character.

Philanthropy is a driving force that moves a crucial part of the world. There is no doubt that the catalytic role of the philanthropic sector is fundamental in promoting positive changes and creating lasting effects in society, contributing to addressing challenges of general interest. In Europe, the welfare state has been complemented by philanthropic actions. In this way, European philanthropy has been shaped by the relationship between the State, the private sector, NGOs, and foundations.

The Royal Spanish Academy defines philanthropy as “love of humanity.” In this vein, we can say that philanthropists are individuals or institutions characterized by developing projects with social purposes and promoting initiatives for the benefit of the community at the local, national, or international level. Thus, they actively dedicate their time, resources, and efforts to support causes and projects that contribute to the well-being and progress of humanity. Therefore, we could define philanthropic foundations as those nonprofit organizations whose ultimate aim is to altruistically help people.

According to the “Analysis of the Economic and Social Contribution of Spanish Foundations” by the Spanish Association of Foundations, prepared by AFI, the impact of the foundation sector on the Spanish economy amounted to 27 billion euros in 2020, representing 2.4% of the Spanish GDP for that year. These figures demonstrate the solid contribution of foundations to the economy, but they provide much more value in areas as diverse as education, cultural creation, talent development, and technological research and innovation. Moreover, as agents committed to social cohesion and the fight against inequality, they represent the best formula for establishing public-private collaborations.

The actions promoted by these institutions are closely linked to the values of the philanthropists, whose motivations may vary, but they share the common understanding that solidarity is necessary to build a better future. In Spain, the CECA sector is an essential actor that demonstrates the transcendent capacity of philanthropy to promote a positive impact on people and their environment.

The CECA sector – composed of nine credit institutions (CaixaBank, Kutxabank, Cajasur Banco, ABANCA, Unicaja, Ibercaja Banco, Caixa Ontinyent, Colonya Pollença, and Cecabank) and more than thirty foundations that stand out for their philanthropic nature, focused on promoting local development and with a social purpose – has consolidated itself as the largest private social investor in Spain.

Beneficial-Social Character

The Social Work of the entities adhering to CECA, historically associated with savings banks, has shifted in recent years towards the foundations of the sector that develop initiatives of a beneficial-social nature. A commitment that has represented a crucial component of the social fabric for decades, playing a key role in building stronger and more sustainable communities. Since the approval of the Law 26/2013 on Savings Banks and Banking Foundations, it has allocated an investment of 7.8 billion euros across Spain to promote 930,000 activities, achieving an annual average of 31 million beneficiaries, as stated in the Social Work Report 2023.

Over the past ten years, we have experienced a pandemic, humanitarian crises, natural disasters, a war in Europe, and geopolitical changes, among other challenges that have generated ongoing instability and uncertainty. Throughout this time, Social Work has been very present, helping society during the toughest moments and especially those who need it most. This assistance translates into programs aimed at promoting improved well-being, fostering equal opportunities and inclusion, primarily directed towards seniors, individuals at risk of social exclusion, or for the empty Spain.

The Social Work of CECA entities not only leads the private social investment in Spain but is also considered one of the main agents in promoting social inclusion. A tremendous effort that has been made possible thanks to the entities and human teams that have continued to professionalize and maintain their commitment to society, displaying great adaptability and flexibility in their programs.