A new initiative is aiming to help organizations connect with each other to strengthen the region’s non-profit, voluntary sector.

The Burin Peninsula Voluntary Clusters Pilot Project is the second of its kind to be carried out by the Community Services Council (CSC) Newfoundland and Labrador – the first focused on the Bonavista and Trinity region.

The Council’s CEO Penny Rowe indicated often organizations located in the same general regions lack the means to network with one another, find out what others are up to and discuss common problems, leaving them all to work in isolation to some degree.

She noted the pilot projects seek to provide that opportunity.

“Then, I’m sure what we’ll discover is people will make connections and pick up and run with relationships themselves.”

Ms. Rowe said they’ve already seen instances “where two organizations will meet and the next thing you know they’re maybe working together around an area where they can help each other out. But had they not come together through these meetings they might not ever have even made that connect.”

While it’s occurred mainly with the first pilot project, she noted there have already been a few instances for the Burin Peninsula project, as well.

“It’s amazing how sometimes just that personal contact that people can make makes all the difference.”

Of the common issues these days, there are many – from recruiting and retaining volunteers, to finding new ways to meet community needs and ensuring a particular organization is able to deliver on its stated mission.

Ms. Rowe noted the provincial government is on board with the initiative and has provided funding for the projects.

Three meetings for individuals identified as heavily involved in the non-profit, voluntary sector on the Burin Peninsula have been held so far. From there, a local advisory group has been established.

As the project evolves, she indicated the goal is to engage more and more people.
The first session open to the public has been scheduled for Nov. 28 at College of the North Atlantic in Burin.

Ms. Rowe indicated notices have been sent out to upwards of 300 organizations throughout the region.

“We would anticipate probably having 30-35 organizations represented, giving them an opportunity to talk about what their issues are, talking about the possibilities that we can share through this Burin Peninsula Clusters Project, and basically giving them an opportunity to hear what others are doing in the non-profit, voluntary sector.”