A fundraising group has thanked the Centre on Philanthropy for decades of service to the Bermuda community.The Association of Fundraising Professionals Bermuda Chapter reacted to the closure of the Centre, which had faced severe financial difficulties.The Centre, formed 30 years ago, had provided training and education for charities and tried to foster collaboration and a volunteer spirit across the island.A spokesman for the AFP said: “None of us wanted to see the conclusion chapter written for the Centre and encourage everyone to join in celebrating the many contributions the Centre on Philanthropy staff, board and volunteers have made to our community.“One of the most difficult tasks of a third sector service organisation is to close and exit. We believe the decision to exit may be the toughest governance decision facing a board of directors. We thank them for their courage.”The AFP said executive director Danielle Riviere and coordinator Shirlene White had “persevered for the last year under very trying circumstances”.The spokesman said: “They modelled professionalism at all times and we know that where ever they end up they will continue to serve well. They taught us all how to exit with grace.”He added: “Our goal today is to simply spotlight that we deeply appreciate the countless contributions made over the years.“We invite everyone to pause, thank someone involved with the Centre on Philanthropy over the years and celebrate how we as a community have benefited from the legacy they leave behind.”