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Description
The proposed project “Securing ARSIS Foundations and Ensuring its Development” will significantly contribute to the implementation of the organisation’s strategic plan, which covers years 2022-2024. These funds will support the management of the organisation, as it will contribute to the staffing of the development and communications departments. Specifically, the reinforcement of the development department is directly related to Strategic Goal 5. Increase resources from private sources of funding. The reinforcement of the communication department is related to Strategic Goal 7. Strengthening the branding and storytelling capacity of the organisation. These two departments are crucial both for the organisational development of ARSIS and for its sustainability in the long run.
In addition, the proposed project is related to the following expected results:
- Expected Result 1: Enhanced citizen participation in the public
- Expected Result 3: Defending Human Rights,
- Expected Result 4: Empowering Vulnerable Groups
- Expected Result 5: Strengthening the capacity and sustainability of civil society
Summary of project results
The project by Arsis aimed to address several critical challenges affecting the organization’s operational stability and effectiveness in supporting vulnerable populations across Greece. Firstly, Arsis faced a declining annual revenue, with the 2022 budget reflecting a substantial 48% reduction. Stabilizing this revenue stream became essential to prevent further cuts that could impair the organization’s capacity to assist those relying on its services. Additionally, there was a pressing need to ensure sustainable operations across its extensive geographical reach, which includes both mainland and island locations. The decrease in funding had already led to staff reductions and an increased reliance on volunteers, highlighting the importance of a sustainability plan to maintain professional support in these regions. Furthermore, Arsis identified an absence of services in the Peloponnese, despite significant needs and requests for assistance there. Establishing a stable presence in this area would enable Arsis to extend its support to vulnerable populations and at-risk youth in a previously underserved region. Lastly, Arsis recognized the evolving landscape of needs in Greece, from shifting priorities in migrant and refugee support to increasing demand for integration programs and housing services for the homeless. To address these diverse challenges, Arsis aimed to expand its initiatives in line with emerging needs, thus enhancing its impact across its three primary areas of activity.
The Organisational Grants do not include funding for the activities and outputs directly; rather, they are intended to support the core capacities and strategic development of the organisation itself.
Arsis embraced a strategic path toward organisational growth and sustainability by implementing various developmental actions to foster inclusivity, strengthen psychosocial support, and ensure operational resilience. Between August 2023 and January 2024, Arsis organised integration and socialisation activities that connected beneficiaries with community life, including participation in cultural events, educational visits, and excursions. Additionally, from July 2023 to December 2023, they provided psychosocial care tailored to children, adolescents, and socially vulnerable groups, while employment counseling and job placement initiatives were also directed toward these populations to promote economic empowerment.
In a concerted effort to reinforce its geographical presence and achieve long-term stability, Arsis drafted and implemented a sustainability plan focusing on diverse funding sources. This strategic plan, covering July 2023 to January 2024, centered on securing European and national funding opportunities, donations, and sponsorships to uphold the organization’s initiatives across its multiple locations.
Arsis also strengthened its financial and operational practices to prevent further reduction in the organization’s annual revenue—a critical aspect of its developmental goals. Between August 2023 and January 2024, they provided rigorous financial and accounting oversight, managing daily operations related to the program activities, conducting financial entries and controls, and preparing reports and recommendations to maintain financial health and ensure organizational sustainability. This comprehensive approach underscored Arsis’ commitment to evolving its operational model while enhancing its capacity to serve vulnerable populations effectively and sustainably across Greece.