The “Local Resilience for Global Challenges” project, led by the Galati Community Foundation (GCF), focuses on preparing the community for various crises such as climate change, natural disasters, pandemics, and conflicts. Through targeted workshops and an educational campaign, the project aims to strengthen local disaster preparedness and raise awareness about the SDGs, particularly SDGs 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 13 (Climate Action).

This initiative emerged from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukrainian War, and the major floods that impacted the region. In response to these events, a clear need for better coordination among civil society organizations, local authorities, and businesses in disaster response was identified. To address this, the project organizes thematic workshops that bring together key stakeholders—NGOs, businesses, and public authorities—to exchange best practices and develop a disaster preparedness plan for Galati.

Additionally, an online educational campaign is underway to engage 50,000 people in learning about the SDGs and how they can be implemented at the local level, making global goals more tangible and actionable within the community.

The key outcomes of the project include:

• A Disaster Preparedness Plan for the community.
• Engaging 50,000 people through the educational campaign.
• Establishing a resource network for emergency support.
• Hosting 3 thematic workshops focused on disaster response and coordination.

Through promoting disaster preparedness and raising awareness of the SDGs, the project is helping build a more resilient and sustainable future for Galati.