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Description
The aim of the project is to promote the sustainability of the Cultural Association "Alternative Reality" and strengthen its capacity by investing in the development of human resources and introducing new management methods and tools.
Within the framework of the project, we will take a big step towards achieving our strategic goals - on the basis of the existing legal and material base, a new effective educational platform will be created for the association''s employees and volunteers, which will provide them with opportunities to acquire knowledge and practical skills in the areas necessary for strengthening the organization''s capacity and ensuring sustainability.
We are planning a training course for creating a motivated, strong and educated team that will be able to significantly improve the organization''s work processes, their efficiency and quality, especially in the management of projects related to volunteer work, social inclusion, participation activities and raising the level of social responsibility, as well as promoting and developing our participation in CSO networks.
In order to significantly improve the quality of the organization''s operations, in this project we plan to implement the principles of project quality management and the M&E system in the daily work of the organization, which will allow the team to manage the association''s activities and projects more effectively in the long term. The personnel training course will also include special training in the development and application of the M&E system.
With the help of an educated, cohesive and motivated team of employees, we also plan to develop an economic activity development plan that will allow to increase the share of revenues not related to projects, thus ensuring the stability and sustainability of the association, using the principles of quality management in daily work.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to promote the sustainability of the Cultural Society "Alternative Reality" and strengthen its capacity by investing in human resource development and implementing new management methods and tools.
Within the project, they took a step towards achieving their strategic goals. A new effective educational platform for the society''s employees and volunteers was created, based on the existing legal and material framework. This platform provided them with the opportunity to gain knowledge and practical skills necessary to strengthen the organization’s capacity and ensure sustainability.
They planned a training course to build a motivated, strong, and educated team capable of significantly improving the organization''s work processes, efficiency, and quality, especially in project management related to volunteering, social inclusion, participation activities, and raising the level of social responsibility, as well as promoting participation in PSO networks.
For significant improvement in the quality of the organization''s operations, they planned to introduce project quality management principles and an M&E system into the organization''s daily work, allowing the team to manage the society’s activities and projects more effectively in the long term. The staff training course also included special training in the development and application of the M&E system.
With the help of an educated, cohesive, and motivated team of employees, they also planned to develop a business development plan, which would allow for an increase in the share of income unrelated to projects, thus ensuring the stability and sustainability of the society by using quality management principles in daily operations.
The organization successfully developed and implemented the Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) system, which became a crucial tool in the management of the organization''s projects. It included automation elements through digital programs and tools that facilitated the processing of large data sets and project documentation. Training sessions were conducted for the organization''s team to ensure the effective use of the system, which enhanced the team''s ability to monitor and evaluate the organization''s activities.
During the project, all planned training courses were completed, including project management, volunteer coordination, communication skills, media literacy training, and education on PSO network operations. Twelve organization members participated in these training sessions, significantly improving their knowledge and skills essential for the organization’s sustainability and capacity building.
A new agreement was signed for participation in the international Eurodesk network with info-point status, and a long-term collaboration was established with the Norwegian PSO network Creatorium International, promoting the organization''s international cooperation and resource exchange.
During the project, information availability and publicity were ensured through the organization''s website and social networks, increasing public awareness of the project''s activities and achievements. A public information event about the project results was organized, attracting wide attention and recognition.
The project significantly contributed to strengthening the capacity and sustainability of the Cultural Society "Alternative Reality" by providing the necessary resources and knowledge for the organization to continue operating effectively and growing in the future. All planned objectives were fully achieved, and the project results exceeded initial expectations.
Short-term (Immediate) Impact: During the project, a Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) system was developed and implemented, aiding the organization in systematically setting goals and regularly assessing their achievement. The M&E system ensures clear and transparent process management, which significantly enhances the organization’s efficiency. Training was provided to the organization’s team on using the M&E system, ensuring that all participants understood and could apply this approach in their daily work. This facilitated the early identification of issues and the adjustment of strategies to achieve the set goals.
As part of the training program, organization members gained knowledge about quality management methods and principles, including project management, communication skills, and volunteer coordination. Adhering to these methods and principles in daily work ensures higher quality results and more effective project implementation. An educational platform was established, providing continuous access to training materials and promoting ongoing learning and application of quality management methods.
A working group was formed within the project, a work plan for the next three years was developed, and a website with a range of commercial offerings was created, which helped increase the proportion of non-project related revenue. Thanks to the successful implementation of marketing and advertising campaigns, as well as the development of the website, the organization was able to attract additional funding, increasing the share of non-project revenue by 10 percentage points. This contributes to the organization’s financial stability and independence.
As a result of the communication activities carried out during the project, the public was widely informed about the project''s activities and achievements, which immediately increased public engagement and support for the organization. A public awareness event about the project results was held, attracting audience attention and appreciation.
Long-term Impact: The established M&E system and training programs are long-term investments that will continue to enhance the organization’s ability to manage projects effectively and achieve set goals in the future. This will ensure the organization’s sustainable development and adaptability to changing conditions. Adherence to quality management methods and principles in daily work will help maintain high operational quality and efficiency, promoting organizational sustainability.
Participation in international networks, such as Eurodesk and collaboration with Creatorium International, fosters long-term international connections. This opens up new opportunities for collaboration and development in the future, increasing the organization’s influence and resources. These collaborations strengthen the organization’s ability to operate on a global level, attracting international partners and resources.
The established website and commercial offerings will continue to attract funding even after the project’s conclusion, ensuring long-term financial stability. The planned development and translation of the website will attract international clients and partners, further strengthening the organization’s financial base. The implementation of sustainable development strategies, including exploring and launching crowdfunding campaigns, will continue to promote the organization’s financial independence.
The public awareness and positive image created during the project foster long-term support for the organization’s activities. Public trust and support are essential for the organization’s sustainable development. Regular communication with the public and updating information about project activities and achievements will help maintain public interest and support moving forward.
Overall Conclusions: The implementation of the "Step into the Future" project has significantly contributed to the achievement of the overall results of the “Sustainability and Capacity” program, ensuring sustainable development, international collaboration, financial stability, and public engagement. Both in the short and long term, the project has provided the necessary resources and knowledge for the Cultural Association "Alternative Reality" to continue growing and developing, fostering a positive impact on society.
Summary of bilateral results
During the "Step into the Future" project, Creatorium International provided significant intellectual contributions during the training sessions aimed at developing the activities of civil society organization (CSO) networks. An expert from Creatorium International, made a valuable contribution by sharing his experience and knowledge, which greatly enriched the training content and enhanced the organization''s capacity building.Development of International Cooperation: the partnership with Creatorium International has facilitated the strengthening and expansion of the organization''s international connections. This collaboration has provided opportunities for participants to engage in international activities, acquire new skills, and share experiences with colleagues from other countries.Ongoing Collaboration: plans for future joint projects are underway. In 2024, a joint Erasmus+ KA international cooperation project is planned, which will further strengthen the partnership and promote long-term collaboration between the organizations.