The first ever regional meeting on supporting the growth and development of philanthropy in Latin America took place in São Paulo, Brazil on 21 and 22 November 2002. The purpose of the meeting was to explore the idea of networking among the different organizations that are supporting the development of philanthropy in the region.

Representatives from ten countries of Latin America[1] took part in the meeting, plus Ford Foundation President Susan Berresford. It was hosted by the two Brazilian members of WINGS, GIFE (a Brazilian association of grantmakers) and IDIS (Institute for Development of Social Investment).