In what it describes as "a drive to inspire generous giving and ensure a positive future", UK-based international development agency Christian Aid has invested in specially tailored fundraising training for over one hundred of its regional and headquarters staff.
Many charities are struggling with both a recessionary climate and also new and growing demand in the current local and global economic situation
Working with the Institute of Fundraising (IoF), Christian Aid reports that it has developed a three day classroom-based course which, taken with a short online IoF course, leads to staff being awarded the IoF’s Introduction to Fundraising Certificate.
The course was initiated after taking into account Christian Aid’s specific needs and relationships, to ensure that staff feel confident about their roles, and how they can make a difference to Christian Aid’s fundraising.
"It’s not unusual for colleagues whose job descriptions don’t say ‘fundraiser’ to feel that the task of asking supporters to give is someone else’s role," explained Alison Knight, a member of Christian Aid’s project team.
She added: "We believe everyone in the organisation has a role in fundraising and this programme will equip all our colleagues to create opportunities to make the ask effectively."
Paul Marvell, Director of Professional Development and Membership at the IoF commented:"‘With the support of the Institute of Fundraising, Christian Aid is creating a model for community fundraising and setting a benchmark for other organisations. They are equipping their staff to feel confident about making the ask, providing bespoke training which will stand the organisation in good stead."
A total of 110 staff will have completed the courses by February 2013, giving Christian Aid one of the biggest concentrations of trained fundraisers in the third sector.
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