One of the biggest challenges for Not for Profit organisations is a lack of volunteers putting themselves forward to become board members.
With over 400 not for profit organisations in County Louth, many of whom are essential to our local communities, this is also a local challenge.
In response to this challenge Louth Volunteer Centre, through their PEACE IV funded Good Relations Initiative, have developed a new training programme for prospective board members.
Gráinne Berrill, Manager of Louth Volunteer Centre explains: “Being a board member of a charity or Community & Voluntary sector organisation can be a wonderful opportunity to share skills, experience and perspective for the good of our community.
“It can be hugely rewarding and offer opportunities for personal and professional development. We are excited to be offering this new programme for people in our local area who have an interest in being a board member of a charity in the community or voluntary sector”
Another challenge that was identified is the lack of diversity in boards and committees. The Volunteer Centre team are therefore particularly interested in recruiting people who are not currently involved in our local community sector; people from under-represented groups in committee and board roles such as under 35s and people not originally from Ireland.
Mary Capplis, an EU Programmes Manager in Louth County Council, said “The strength of volunteerism has never been more evident than in the last 12 months and the role that voluntary board members contribute to the community sector is immense.
“I am delighted this new training programme is commencing at this time, as it will support people who wish to enhance or develop the skills to empower themselves and our communities.
“I would encourage people to engage in this excellent training programme, as it will provide life-long skills and has been carefully designed to support peace building and cross community interaction, enabling people to live, learn, socialise together and help to heal divided communities.”
The programme starts on the 13th April and runs for six weeks. If you are interested in taking part in this programme further information is available by clicking HERE
