You have a great cause, noble even. Your activity makes a difference to people’s lives, some in a small way, some monumental. You have supporters that are willing to help and funding that can achieve results. So how do you manage it all? How do you move forward? You may have a great opportunity but it comes with rules, regulations and issues. Those willing and able to help may not have the necessary skills and experience, so where do you start?
The committee has a responsibility to the organisation, staff and volunteers. Do you have the capacity building tools to support and strengthen your organisation and infrastructure? If not, you need to take action now. Our experience over the years has shown that the three keys areas requiring attention are:
Governance
To fulfil your responsibility as a committee you must adhere to good governance practices. The principles of good governance require the committee to be:
- Accountable
- Transparent
- Responsive
- Equitable and inclusive
- Effective and efficient
- Compliant
- Participative
These principles are important as the committee has overall responsibility and accountability for all the organisation’s assets. The members should act with integrity and openness at all times to maintain its reputation and standing within the community. A good governance model is crucial to every organisation.
Strategy
What is your reason for existing? Do you have a strategic plan to guide you into the future? Every organisation needs to have appropriate plans in place that are understood by everyone.
Having a sound, effective strategic plan will:
- Provide a roadmap for success
- Provide clarity within the organisation
- Guide the achievement of goals and objectives
- Aid survival during difficult times
Your plan should demonstrate a viable fit between the organisations objectives, resources and environmental opportunities. It will enable you to communicate your mission and vision to external stakeholders. The key to success is to continuously monitor, review and revise your plan for changing circumstances.
Finance
An organisation will acquire income from a number of sources. These funds must be properly managed in accordance with funder requirements, so good financial management is essential.
Organisations must ensure financial sustainability. They must establish and maintain:
- A finance strategy aligned to the strategic plan
- A robust financial management system
- Sound financial controls
Whilst the finance officer will be responsible for maintaining the financial systems the committee are liable and as such must have a good understanding of the finance function. It is importance for all involved to be up-skilled to sufficiently understand the importance of the finance function and their respective responsibilities as members of the organisation.
Dawn McLaughlin & Co, provide a wide range of training and development workshops tailored to the needs of individual community and voluntary organisations.
