"To Help is to Beautify Our Spiritual Essence"

Fondation Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour Swiss Philanthropic Foundation

Solidarity Online Shop

Helping Today

Supporting those in greatest need

Helping, giving, and supporting are essential acts that embody solidarity with those in distress. These actions, whether big or small, can bring hope and comfort, transforming lives. To be human is to show empathy and compassion, actively seeking to support those in need, easing their daily lives, and building a better future.

Access to clean water

Access to clean water is a fundamental human right recognized by the United Nations.

However, many people around the world do not have access to a reliable source of clean water.

Efforts must be made to ensure that everyone has access to safe and sufficient clean water to meet their daily needs.

Access to food

Access to food is a vital need for all, but many people around the world do not have access to sufficient and nutritious food.

The reasons for this include poverty, armed conflict, natural disasters, climate change, and discrimination.

The foundation will work with other institutions to provide food to those in need, as well as solutions for food self-sufficiency.

Access to healthcare

It is unfortunate to note that healthcare in many countries is in a catastrophic state. Healthcare systems in these countries are often underfunded, ill-equipped, and lacking in medicines as well as qualified personnel.

This has serious consequences for the health and well-being of local populations.

We must work together with non-governmental organizations to improve the health and well-being of these individuals.

Decent housing

Many poor countries face significant challenges in housing, including unhealthy, overcrowded, or unsafe living conditions.

The most affected individuals are the poorest and most vulnerable, such as homeless people, refugees, displaced persons, and those living in slums.

We must do everything possible to ensure that all human beings have access to safe, healthy, and affordable housing.

Education & formation

The precarious situation of education in poor countries is a major challenge for the future of these countries and for improving the quality of life of their inhabitants.

The consequences of this situation are serious, as education is essential for economic, social, and cultural development.

The lack of education can lead to poverty, food insecurity, disease, and political instability. We must do everything possible to change this.

Artisanal art

Preserving artisanal art is vital for maintaining our cultural heritage. This involves protecting both tangible objects and intangible skills, through restoration, documentation, and educating younger generations. This approach ensures the transmission and appreciation of unique traditions for the future.

The founders

Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour

"Perseverance and commitment in the pursuit of success and collective well-being: the inspiring life journey of Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour"

The founders

An atypical couple

The life journey of Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour has been marked by challenges and an unrelenting struggle to achieve their goals. Their incredible determination to overcome the obstacles that stood in their way has allowed them to fulfill their dreams and become role models for others.

Persevering despite the difficulties encountered is an essential quality for success in life. It is important to keep in mind one's goals and to demonstrate determination and resilience in the face of obstacles that arise.

Le parcours de Philippe et Elisabeth Dufour nous montre également l'importance de s'engager dans ce qui nous tient à cœur et de poursuivre nos passions avec ardeur. Leur désir de faire une différence positive dans le monde les pousse à se battre pour leur cause et à réaliser leur vision.

Their life journey is a source of inspiration for all those seeking to achieve their goals and make a difference in the world. Their determination, perseverance, and commitment to philanthropy are qualities that can guide us on the path to personal and collective success and well-being.

Our First Contribution

A unique Simplicity

We are driven by a strong desire to personally involve ourselves in the management of our Foundation and contribute to its funding. With this in mind, we have decided to make available a unique Simplicity timepiece to the foundation, with the aim of providing the necessary "impetus" for it to commence its actions in favor of the most vulnerable individuals.

This initiative demonstrates our unwavering commitment to this noble endeavor, and we suggest that it inspires others to join us in this passionate adventure. Indeed, we are convinced that many people share our values and are ready to support us in this honorable cause.

Consequently, we are open to all proposals that could assist us in achieving our goals. We have our loyal customers and watchmaking friends in mind, who could provide valuable aid in this endeavor. We are convinced that, together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need of our help.

We are eagerly anticipating the fruits of our commitment and we look forward to working closely with all those who share our vision. The auction of the unique Simplicity timepiece will be a significant milestone in our journey, and we are confident that this event will be a true success. We hope that it will inspire others to support us and join us in this humanitarian adventure.

Areas of focus of the foundation

Activities

The goals of the Foundation

01. Helping people in emergency and disadvantaged situations

People in emergency and disadvantaged situations can refer to various populations, such as homeless people, refugees, victims of domestic violence, those with chronic illnesses, the elderly, children, and families living in poverty.

These populations may face a multitude of issues such as hunger, lack of shelter, food insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, lack of employment and educational opportunities, and increased exposure to environmental and health risks.

The foundation aims to help people in emergency and disadvantaged situations by providing services such as emergency shelters, food services, healthcare, counseling, and legal assistance.

It will do so through realistic, concrete, and structured projects that are sustainable and fully transparent.

02. Participation in the construction and renovation of hospital structures, equipment, and materials

The lack of hospital structures, equipment, and materials is a major problem in many underdeveloped countries. These countries often lack the financial resources and government support to build and maintain modern hospitals, adequately equipped to meet the needs of patients.

 

The consequences of this resource shortage are often serious and can include a lack of access to healthcare, poor quality of care, an increase in the spread of infectious diseases, and a high mortality rate. Hospitals can be overcrowded, and patients may lack beds, medication, diagnostic and treatment equipment, as well as qualified personnel to provide care.

 

The construction and renovation of hospital structures, equipment, and materials are complex processes that require careful planning, technical skills, and effective coordination.

 

To ensure optimal results, it is important for the foundation to work in close collaboration with competent teams from the outset of the project and to communicate regularly throughout the process. Goals must be clearly defined and deadlines met to ensure that projects are completed within the allotted time and budget constraints.

03.Supporting the education and learning of people in precarious situations

The problem of education in poor countries is alarming, and there are significant needs to be met. In many developing countries, access to quality education is limited, especially for children and women from disadvantaged backgrounds. School infrastructures are often inadequate, and teachers are under-qualified and poorly paid. Dropout rates are high, particularly among girls, women, and children from rural areas.

 

This lack of education has serious consequences for individuals and for countries as a whole. People with little education are less likely to find decent and well-paid employment, which can keep them in poverty.

 

It is also important to address the cultural and social barriers that prevent girls and children from rural areas from attending school. Awareness campaigns and support programs for families can help overcome these barriers.

 

Education is a fundamental human right and a crucial investment for the future of all countries.

 

To help solve this problem, the foundation will conduct a series of projects to promote access to knowledge but also promote learning, which is an important pathway to enter the workforce.

04. To support artisans who pass on their art to younger generations

The transmission of artisanal skills is very important. Artisans possess unique skills and knowledge that have been passed down from generation to generation, often on an oral basis. These skills are often the result of practice and experience acquired over time.

 

This transmission is important for several reasons. First, it allows for the preservation of traditions and techniques that have been developed over centuries. These techniques may be in danger of disappearing if they are not passed down to future generations.

 

In addition, the transmission of artisanal skills can be beneficial for the local economy. Local artisans can create unique and high-quality products that attract tourists and stimulate the local economy. This can also contribute to the preservation of traditional knowledge and the promotion of local cultures.

 

Furthermore, it is an excellent way to strengthen community ties. Local artisans can work together to share their knowledge and skills, thereby building a strong and united community.

 

For all these reasons, the foundation will establish programs to promote and support the transmission of artisanal skills.

05. Participating in the preservation of the material and immaterial heritage of artisanal art

The preservation of the material and immaterial heritage of artisanal art is crucial for safeguarding our cultural and historical heritage. Artisanal art is a traditional skill that has been passed down from generation to generation and is often associated with a particular culture or region.

The preservation of the material heritage of artisanal art can include the preservation of historic buildings, monuments, sculptures, art objects, furniture, textiles, and other artifacts. This may involve efforts to restore and preserve these objects, as well as exhibiting them to the public in museums, galleries, and other cultural venues.

Regarding the preservation of the immaterial heritage of artisanal art, it aims to protect the practices, traditions, and skills associated with this art. This may include documenting techniques and manufacturing methods, preserving songs, dances, and celebrations that are associated with this art, as well as transmitting this knowledge to future generations.

Preserving the material and immaterial heritage of artisanal art is essential to safeguard our cultural heritage and ensure that future generations can enjoy these unique treasures.

The founders and board of the foundation are highly sensitive to this issue and will implement solutions to preserve this universal heritage.

The Foundation Board

The members of the foundation's board of directors

An international team

Respect, commitment, integrity & solidarity

The foundation board is built on shared values: respect, commitment, integrity, and solidarity. These principles foster harmonious collaboration, strengthened by a culture of transparency and trust. Together, the members combine their efforts to maximize the foundation’s impact and achieve its goals with integrity and efficiency.

Support from the Foundation

What we do

The projects and actions of the Foundation

TRAINING Adults

MANOS PERUANAS Peru

Peruvian Association of Women Straw Hat Weavers "Ă‘ari Walac"

Supporting the training of 50 women to enable them to make a living from their work.

Updated on november 1, 2024

Progress

50%

Healthcare Valley population

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BAILLERET Switzerland

A revolutionary medical scanner transforms healthcare in the Vallée de Joux

Mission accomplished

Updated on July 19, 2024.

Progress

100%

Education Children & adolescents

HOAVY Madagascar

To support Mizarasoa in their fight for the education of underprivileged youth.

The Mizarasoa Association is dedicated to educating disadvantaged youth and supporting underprivileged villages.

Updated on July 19, 2024.

Progress

80%
TISANDO FUTURO

Humanitarian Population of the canton of Vaud

Support Caritas Vaud Switzerland

Caritas Vaud is a Swiss organization fighting against poverty.

Mission accomplished

Updated on August 13, 2024.

Progress

100%

SUPPORT Talented young watchmakers

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Support AHCI Switzerland

Development of synergy with AHCI for the benefit of young talents

Mission accomplished

Updated on August 13, 2024.

Progress

100%

Healthcare Valley population

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PERNETTA Switzerland

Improving access to obstetric ultrasound in the Vallée

Mission accomplished

Updated on January 16, 2025

Progress

100%

TRAINING Teenagers and Women

GAZELA Madagascar

Support for the Professional Training Program

Improving the socio-economic conditions of families in the rural commune of Antanarivo South.

Updated on December 24, 2024

Progress

25%

Blog

The Blog

The latest news and articles

We prioritize clear and consistent communication with our donors, beneficiaries, and supporters. This ensures you stay informed about our updates while enjoying privileged access to our activities and initiatives.

Donation

Echoes of generosity: A bridge of light between souls

In the vastness of the universe, every act of generosity is a star that brightens the darkness. To give, no matter the size, is to build a bridge between souls—a testament to our shared humanity and interconnection. It is to partake in a universal exchange of love and kindness, recognizing that a part of oneself resides in others. By giving today, you choose to nurture hope and let your light shine in someone else's life. Together, let us weave unbreakable bonds and illuminate our path toward a future filled with compassion and unity.

Make a donation through the Solidarity Shop

Call for Projects

Joining forces for major social impact

The Philippe and Elisabeth Dufour Foundation is committed to supporting projects that transform lives and address humanitarian challenges. We provide financial, material, or expertise-based support to initiatives that improve living conditions for vulnerable communities, offer emergency aid to disadvantaged individuals, strengthen medical infrastructure and equipment, facilitate education for the underprivileged, promote the transmission of artisanal skills, and preserve the heritage of craftsmanship. Together, let’s build a better world.

Commitment of the Foundation

The Philippe and Elisabeth Dufour Foundation is committed to reviewing each proposal with diligence, fairness, and responsiveness, supporting initiatives aligned with its values of inclusion and solidarity. More than just a funding provider, the Foundation seeks to be an active partner, offering financial, material, and strategic support to maximize project impact. By fostering collaborations based on trust and transparency, it aims to build a future where everyone can live with dignity and achieve their potential.

Call for projects application form

Recommendations

To submit your project to our organization, gather a detailed description, your objectives, and a budget. Then, complete our online form and attach your documents (PDF or JPG). Once submitted, our team will review your application with full confidentiality. We support initiatives aimed at improving lives and addressing humanitarian challenges, with a secure and privacy-respecting process.

Contact

Founders' message

Fondation Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour

By Philippe Dufour

I have had a long, perilous, and exciting career as an independent watchmaker that has led me to the pinnacle of high watchmaking. I reached this point through sheer determination and tenacity, constantly refining my craft, never giving up, and refusing to compromise. I owe this success to myself but also to the people I have been fortunate to associate with, who have helped me on my journey.

I think of the individuals who have passed on their knowledge and love for the craft, as my dear friend and mentor Gabriel Locatelli has done so well. But I especially think of my wife Elisabeth, who has always supported me unconditionally and has assisted me so perfectly for many years. Without her, I would not be the man and watchmaker I am today.

Both of us have reached a point in our personal and professional lives where we felt the need to give back a portion of what we have received, to be the "factor of chance" for others. That is why we have created our own foundation, personally and passionately committing ourselves to the establishment and operation of this humanitarian organization.

We wanted a philanthropic foundation that is open to all the major challenges the world is facing, with a future that appears rather bleak. There are urgent situations, whether humanitarian, environmental, educational, or public health-related. We do not claim to be able to solve all the problems, but we ardently desire to do what we can to alleviate the suffering and despair of the most deprived individuals, by contributing our part to the greater good. As the saying goes, "Little streams make big rivers."

We also wanted to incorporate artisanal art into the support of the foundation, not abandoning our love for watchmaking but expanding access to young talents and all manual artistic crafts.

We have created our own foundation because we intend to pursue this endeavor just as we have conducted our respective careers – without compromise, with passion, integrity, justice, and respect, which are our core values. We also emphasize that this foundation operates with utmost transparency. Our ambition is to gather around us and this foundation individuals, clients, and friends who have admiration for the work and timepieces of Phillipe Dufour. We firmly believe that sharing is the key to happiness, and we hope that many will assist us in spreading a little happiness throughout the world, which is desperately in need of it.

The members of the foundation board accompanying us in this new adventure come from diverse international backgrounds (Cameroon, France, Lebanon, Peru, and Switzerland) and have a wide range of professional expertise, with strong representation of women. All these individuals will work passionately and committedly, sharing our values and philosophy.

Code of Ethics

Fondation Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour

The Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour Foundation has established an ethical charter that outlines the key ethical principles of the foundation, based on its core values. The objective of this charter is to ensure the independence of the foundation's actions and decisions, as well as the transparency of its activities and organization.

Integrity, respect, justice, transparency, and creativity are the values that guide the actions of the foundation's board of trustees. Members commit to strictly adhering to the moral rules, duties, and regulations of the foundation, as well as fulfilling their obligations towards supervisory authorities, in the execution of their tasks and missions.

They also commit to acting positively towards others, considering the impact of their actions, being inclusive, and demonstrating empathy while respecting the rights of individuals. Impartiality, selflessness, and fairness are principles that should guide all actions of the members of the board of trustees.

Transparency is a crucial element of the board of trustees' commitment. Members pledge to disclose everything and provide evidence to the foundation's donors and supporters to earn their trust.

Finally, creativity is an important value for the board of trustees, who must envision and implement innovative solutions and effective concepts to address the challenges faced by the foundation.

The board of trustees aims to alleviate the economic, social, environmental, or cultural difficulties faced by the most disadvantaged individuals through concrete and philanthropic actions. This foundation was born out of the desire of Philippe Dufour and his wife Elisabeth Dufour to "give back what they have received." The board of trustees consists of six individuals and is co-chaired by the founders, Philippe and Elisabeth Dufour.

This charter has been unanimously approved by the board of trustees, which is composed of members from diverse and complementary backgrounds, all driven by passion and commitment to serve the foundation.

Projet BAILLERET

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A revolutionary medical scanner transforms healthcare in the Vallée de Joux

Context: Medical challenges in the Vallée de Joux

The Vallée de Joux, nestled in a remote region, has long suffered from the lack of a medical scanner at the Pôle Santé Vallée de Joux (PSVJ). This deficiency forced residents to travel long distances to access vital diagnostic services, a situation worsened by harsh weather conditions, including heavy snowfall in winter. Without this critical equipment, the PSVJ struggled to provide effective emergency care, endangering the health and lives of patients in critical situations

Mission Accomplished: State-of-the-Art Equipment for the PSVJ

In response to this challenge, the Philippe and Elisabeth Dufour Foundation, in partnership with the Paul-Edouard Piguet Foundation and the Louis Napoleon Foundation, undertook the task of equipping the Vallée de Joux Health Center (PSVJ) with a modern medical imaging scanner. This ambitious project, now successfully completed, has filled a crucial gap in the region's diagnostic infrastructure. The acquisition of this state-of-the-art equipment has significantly improved access to and quality of medical care for the local population. The scanner enhances the PSVJ's diagnostic capabilities, enabling quicker and more precise interventions, which are essential for the treatment of medical emergencies.

Vision Accomplished: Medical Excellence in Vallée de Joux

The implementation of this project has revolutionized patient care in the Vallée de Joux, providing immediate access to high-precision diagnostics. Thanks to this advanced medical scanner, the quality of care has reached a nationally recognized level of excellence. This initiative has had a direct and lasting impact on the community's health by providing more accurate and faster diagnoses. It marks a turning point in our pursuit of optimal medical care, ensuring that every resident of the Vallée de Joux receives top-tier healthcare, meeting Swiss standards of quality and efficiency.

Testimony from Dr. Naiken

Dr. Naiken, Medical Director and Chief Surgeon of the Vallée de Joux Health Center Hospital, stated: "The Philippe and Elisabeth Dufour Foundation is the largest donor to the Vallée de Joux Health Center. Thanks to the scanner they funded in partnership with the Paul-Edouard Piguet and Louis Napoleon Foundations, our facility now has a valuable technical platform for reliable diagnostics, offering crucial time savings and better patient care, especially in life-threatening situations. This scanner arrives at an opportune moment in our hospital planning, allowing us to keep the emergency department open 24/7. It is a relief for the local population and the healthcare team, preventing patient transfers far from their homes."

Gallery

Solidarity Vaud Project

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Solidarity Vaud: Together Against Exclusion

Caritas Vaud:

A non-profit entity founded in 1942, dedicated to combating poverty and social exclusion at the local level. As a cantonal section of Caritas Switzerland, it advocates for disadvantaged people both in Switzerland and internationally. Based in the canton of Vaud, it offers a variety of services and programs aimed at assisting individuals and families facing financial, social, and personal challenges. Its offerings include, among others, food aid, financial counseling, initiatives for professional integration, support for families and children, and projects dedicated to migrants and refugees. The goal of Caritas Vaud is to promote solidarity and support for the most vulnerable, while fighting social exclusion to build a more just and inclusive society.

Mission accomplished: The Foundation successfully strengthens the impact of Caritas Vaud.

The Philippe and Elisabeth Dufour Foundation is pleased to announce that its mission to support Caritas Vaud has been successfully accomplished. Through a series of strategic initiatives, we have significantly strengthened Caritas Vaud's impact in its fight against poverty and exclusion in the canton. We funded projects perfectly aligned with our philanthropic goals, provided flexible financial aid to address urgent needs, and established strong partnerships to develop programs addressing critical social issues. Additionally, our support has enhanced Caritas Vaud's organizational and operational capacities, while promoting awareness and advocacy efforts that have successfully raised public consciousness and influenced policies in favor of inclusion. Finally, we encouraged networking and the sharing of expertise, enriching strategies and practices. Together, we have achieved a comprehensive and diversified support that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact.

Gallery

AHCI Support Project

Development of a synergy with the AHCI

Support for emerging talents by the Foundation.

The Académie Horlogère des Créateurs Indépendants (AHCI), founded in 1985, is dedicated to promoting and recognizing independent watchmakers by preserving traditional craftsmanship while encouraging innovation. In partnership with the Philippe and Elisabeth Dufour Foundation, the AHCI actively supports emerging watchmaking talents. Thanks to Philippe Dufour's commitment, the foundation facilitates their access to key events and media, enhancing their visibility and professional development. The concept "Temps de l’imago," symbolized by the metamorphosis of a butterfly, embodies this philosophy of support, enabling watchmakers to achieve their full artistic and technical potential. This synergy between individual talent and collective support is essential for perpetuating and renewing the art of watchmaking.

Mission accomplished: The Foundation strengthens the excellence of young watchmakers.

The Philippe and Elisabeth Dufour Foundation is proud to announce that its mission to support emerging watchmaking talents, in collaboration with the AHCI, has been successfully accomplished. Through strong commitment, we have been able to provide new watchmakers with the resources and visibility needed to develop and innovate in the art of watchmaking. The concept of "Temps de l’imago" fully embodied our vision, allowing these talents to flourish and achieve creative maturity. This initiative has strengthened the synergy between tradition and innovation, ensuring the continuity and evolution of independent watchmaking.

Projet PERNETTA

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Context: A Medical Success in the Vallée de Joux

Improving access to obstetric ultrasounds: A successfully overcome challenge

Following the success of the Bailleret Project, a new challenge emerged for the Pôle Santé Vallée de Joux (PSVJ): the PERNETTA Project. Its goal was clear: to address a critical gap in the region's healthcare services by equipping the Vallée hospital with more modern equipment for obstetric ultrasounds. Today, we are proud to announce that this project has been completed, and the ultrasound machine has been successfully delivered and put into operation.

This achievement represents a significant step forward for the region. Thanks to this new equipment, patients in the Vallée de Joux now benefit from accurate prenatal diagnostics and regular monitoring of fetal development directly on-site. This service, previously unavailable, spares expectant mothers from having to travel to distant healthcare centers, thereby reducing not only logistical challenges for families but also the risks and stress associated with such trips.

Beyond prenatal care, this new equipment also offers opportunities for other gynecological diagnostics, enhancing prevention and accelerating the treatment of common conditions. It represents a key milestone in improving access to local healthcare services and reflects the PSVJ's commitment to the residents of the Vallée de Joux.

The PERNETTA Project is more than just a technological investment. It embodies a deeply humanistic approach, aiming to ensure high-quality care for all families in the region. This success strengthens the medical autonomy of the Vallée de Joux and highlights the importance of healthcare solutions tailored to the specific needs of rural areas.

The PSVJ warmly thanks all individuals and partners who contributed to the success of this ambitious project. Thanks to this collective effort, the families of the Vallée de Joux can look to the future with greater peace of mind and confidence in their local healthcare system.

Call for projects application form

Welcome to the foundation's website

Another success for our Foundation!

We are pleased to announce that the Pernetta project has achieved its goal.

A major medical breakthrough for the Vallée de Joux, improving access to obstetrical ultrasounds.

Stay tuned: more great news is coming soon!