Action Learning Network: Notes from the 1st Network Session February 1, 2013 at GNS Sports Complex

What is the Action Learning Network (ALN)?

The purpose of the Action Learning Network is to share and network available resources with the aim of improving the services the voluntary sector delivers. Hosted by the Volunteerism Support Platform with support from Cuso International and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the ALN creates a setting where organizations and individuals can gather to share best practices or resources; share experiences with other organizations and individuals; create and expand networks; examine issues within their respective service sectors; and to explore solutions with the aim of facilitating organizational sector development. The ALN is expected to snowball into a structured body that will provide the scope for organizations and individuals to tap into a pool of existing and documented Guyanese resources and approaches to forward the development of the voluntary sector.

Summary of Main Presentation Points from February 1 Session

Topic for ALN session: Facilitator: Social Networking in the Voluntary Sector Ms. Omattie Madrey

Social Networking is a form of social structure (formal or informal) comprised of several actors individuals and organizations- that interact together with the common goal of sharing limited resources (tangible and intangible) to a promote a common interest. Stemming from the discussion, the participants evaluated Guyanas situation and expressed that there are several challenges affecting effective and efficient networking. These challenges were noted as: 1. The lack of an umbrella body to foster cohesiveness of organisations; 2. Lack of effective communication with other organisations within the same service sector or across; 3. Lack of the expertise and resources needed by organisations within the same service sector or across; 4. Political influences, and 5. Many well-established organisations and individuals are more territorial than others, thus hindering the degree to which other organisations approach or want to work with them. The participants noted that there are several benefits to be had should networking be more organised and focused (valued). These benefits include: 1. strengthening capacities of organisations and individuals; 2. increasing the impact and quality of the service delivered by voluntary organisations;

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Value-added to the efforts NGOs and Individuals make to development; A wider reach of services to potential beneficiaries; Sharing and networking resources- tangible and intangible, and Increasing the weight of service sectors for effective Advocacy.

The facilitator introduced the participants to factors that they should consider when joining or establishing a network. These factors include: 1. The type of Network- This relates to the type of beneficiaries. E.g a Youth Network, A Womens network or a Disability Network. 2. Who are the members of the Network and/or what other organisations or individuals execute programmes/activities of the same nature. 3. The clearly outlined objectives and strategies to achieve objectives. 4. The indicators of success for the network. 5. A clearly defined Management body of the network. 6. Identified Sources of funding for the Network.

Suggestions for Future Topics:

1. Networking Part 2 2. Advocacy in the Voluntary Sector

Next Learning Action Network

Time: 9:00am-12:30pm Date: 15th March, 2013 Venue: GNS sports Complex Facilitator: To be announced Topic: To be announced