Helping NGOs grow their impact in The Bahamas

Project Overview: The GlobalGiving and their donors have been key supporters of the efforts of ORG Bahamas Foundation, a Bahamian not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting Good Governance through education and engagement across various sectors. ORG Bahamas Foundation has a rich history of capacity building initiatives aimed at empowering local not-for-profit organizations. Over the past year, ORG has conducted extensive capacity building training sessions covering crucial topics such as fundraising, communications, advocacy, financial management, and monitoring and evaluation. These efforts have reached over 100 local not-for-profit leaders, equipping them with essential skills to enhance their organizational effectiveness and impact.

Recent Activities: In the last quarter, ORG Bahamas Foundation undertook a significant initiative by conducting a comprehensive study on the socio-economic impact of civil society in The Bahamas. This study utilized both quantitative and qualitative research methods to identify key trends within the local civil society landscape. The findings of the study shed light on the invaluable contributions made by civil society organizations to the socio-economic development of The Bahamas.

Key Findings: The study highlighted several noteworthy observations:

1. Cost-Effective Implementation: Civil society organizations were recognized as highly efficient implementers of social support programs, offering cost-effective solutions that directly benefit beneficiaries and their communities.

2. Positive Impact: Civil society organizations play a pivotal role in fostering job opportunities, increasing citizen involvement, and responding effectively to emergency situations, thereby positively impacting both individuals and communities.

Opportunities for Growth: Despite their significant contributions, the study identified several areas where the sector could benefit from further support and enhancement:

1. Capacity Building: There is a clear need for increased capacity building initiatives focusing on management and strategic areas to enable organizations to operate more efficiently and sustainably.

2. Sector Coordination: Better coordination within the civil society sector is essential for maximizing collective impact and avoiding duplication of efforts.

3. Access to Financing: Access to funding remains a critical challenge for many civil society organizations. Efforts to enhance access to financing opportunities are crucial for sustaining their operations and expanding their impact.

4. Regulatory Framework: A more consistent regulatory system is necessary to provide clarity and stability for civil society organizations, facilitating their operations and promoting accountability.

Next Steps: Building upon the insights gained from the study, ORG Bahamas Foundation is committed to implementing targeted interventions to address the identified opportunities for growth within the civil society sector. This includes designing tailored capacity building programs, facilitating collaboration and networking opportunities, advocating for improved financing mechanisms, and engaging with relevant stakeholders to enhance the regulatory environment.

Conclusion: The project aimed at growing the impact of not-for-profit organizations in The Bahamas has made significant strides in enhancing the capacity and effectiveness of civil society organizations. Through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions, ORG Bahamas Foundation remains dedicated to promoting Good Governance and fostering sustainable development across The Bahamas.

Links:

• ORG's Civil Society Capacity Building efforts

• ORG CSO Impact study (PDF)