Counterpoint Community Services has been appointed as the International Federation of Settlements and Neighbourhood Centres (IFS) Host Office for 2027–2028, keeping the international role based in Sydney and ensuring continued strategic momentum.
Safe housing is a fundamental human right, yet billions face inadequacy and insecurity. In a joint statement for the 2026 International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, the International Federation of Settlements and Neighbourhood Centres (IFS) and the International Association for Community Development (IACD) call for urgent, community-led solutions that put people and power at the heart of housing policy.
COPAD GRANDS-LACS shares a rapid field assessment on the evolving Ebola outbreak in eastern DRC, highlighting community-rooted prevention priorities, challenges on the ground, and the crucial role of local leadership.
Deep listening and storytelling are not just preparation for community work—they are the work itself. Reflecting on lessons from Australia’s neighborhood center movement, Junias Kanyinda explores how listening to local stories reveals systemic patterns, shifts the focus from temporary rescues to “repairing the bridge,” and turns individual experiences into collective action.
In June 2026, delegates gathered in Berlin to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Verband für sozial-kulturelle Arbeit e.V. (VskA). This milestone highlighted three-quarters of a century of neighbourhood action, democratic participation, and international exchange, reflecting on the post-war origins and future of community work across Germany and globally.
In June 2026, community, neighbourhood, child and youth sector leaders from Australia, Canada, the United States and Germany came together in Berlin for an international professional exchange exploring advocacy, youth work, community development, civic participation and social inclusion. While international exchanges have long been a valued part of the settlement house, neighbourhood centre and community…
Several members and staff of the International Federation of Settlements and Neighbourhood Centres (IFS) recently attended the International Community Development Conference, joining practitioners and leaders from around the world to explore approaches to strengthening communities, social inclusion, and community-led development. A key outcome of the conference was the formalisation of a Reciprocal Organisational Affiliation Agreement…
We’re pleased to invite you to the first Creative Exchange Circle, a relaxed and informal space for connection, sharing, and creative exploration across the IFS network. 📅 Event Details Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026Time: 👉 Join the meeting 🌿 About the Creative Exchange Circle The Creative Exchange Circle is a small, welcoming space for practitioners…
The International Federation of Settlements and Neighborhood Centers (IFS) celebrates the record-breaking voter turnout in Hungary’s recent election, which marked a pivotal shift in the nation’s leadership. With 77.8% of eligible voters participating, this election represents the highest turnout in Hungarian history and a resounding call for democratic renewal. The election results bring a new…
The International Federation of Settlement Houses and Neighbourhood Centres (IFS), representing more than 11,000 community-based organisations in 30 countries, expresses deep concern about the rapidly worsening military confrontation in the Middle East. The situation has caused significant civilian casualties, widespread fear, and the destruction of vital community and social infrastructure. IFS supports the United Nations’…
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