Capacity building for the development of EA ""World-Our Home""

Description

Project "Capacity Building for the Development of "EA World-Our Home" aims to develop and set up organization''s strategic activity, as well as to increase the capacity of the organization''s employees and members by acquiring new knowledge, practice and experience. The project will last 17 months from 01.07.2022.- 31.11.2023. During this period EA WOH will implement a variety of activities to strengthen the organization’s capacity, enhance visibility and strengthen knowledge and ability of the organization’s employees to develop the organization’s goals.
During the project the resources attracted during the years will be used effectively, as well the activities of the organization will be strengthened, promoting the development of civil society. The target groups of the project are EA WOH employees, members, volunteers.
As a result of the project, 3 jobs will be provided for the project manager, coordinator and accountant, the attraction of the organization''s human resources will be facilitated, EA WOH employees will be trained so that they have the necessary skills and knowledge for the organization’s development, its visibility and cooperation with other organizations. During this project the work will be done on advertising and promotion of EA WOH, as well as an experience study trip to Norway will be organized in order to develop international co-operation with Nordic organizations and promote joint projects in the future. The development of organization''s economic activities will be promoted by obtaining a camp leader''s certificate and organizing local and international youth camps in the future. Project activities will involve both the staff of the organization, its members and volunteers. During the project the publicity and visibility of the project will be promoted by organizing publicity events.
The objectives of the project and planned activities will make a significant contribution to the capacity building, visibility and development of the organization.

Summary of project results

The project "Capacity Building for the Development of ''EA World-Our Home''" aimed to address several key challenges and issues related to the organization''s growth and sustainability:

1. Strategic Development and Capacity Building:
   The organization needed a structured strategy to strengthen its activities and ensure sustainable growth. The project addressed this by developing strategic activities and enhancing the skills and knowledge of its employees and members to support the organization’s goals.

2. Human Resource Development:
   Attracting and retaining skilled personnel was a challenge. The project aimed to provide training to employees, members, and volunteers, equipping them with essential skills to contribute effectively to the organization’s operations and future development.

3. Visibility and Public Engagement:
   The lack of visibility and awareness about the organization''s initiatives and impact was an issue. Through advertising, promotional activities, and the organization of publicity events, the project sought to increase public recognition and engagement.

4. International Collaboration:
   The project aimed to address the challenge of limited international partnerships by organizing an experience study trip to Norway. This initiative sought to build cooperative relationships with Nordic organizations and foster joint future projects.

5. Economic Activities and Youth Engagement:
   The organization needed to diversify its activities and increase its economic sustainability. By obtaining camp leader certifications and planning local and international youth camps, the project aimed to broaden its activity base and involve more young people in its initiatives.

6. Civil Society Development:
   The project recognized the importance of contributing to broader civil society development. By utilizing accumulated resources effectively and engaging employees, members, and volunteers in meaningful activities, it aimed to strengthen the role of civil society in the region.

The project successfully diversified the activities of the organization "EA World-Our Home," focusing on improving and enhancing the knowledge and skills of employees and members. Previously, the organization''s focus was primarily on target groups such as youth, youth workers, and adults. Through this project, the emphasis shifted to internal development, equipping the team with tools and competencies for future growth.

Key achievements include:

1. Capacity Building:

   • Employees gained new knowledge and experience, helping diversify and enhance the organization''s future activities.
   • Strategic connections were established with lecturers and partner organizations, particularly in Norway, which was a new collaboration region for the organization.
   • A successful exchange trip to Norway facilitated the creation of trusted partnerships for future joint initiatives.

2. Strategic Development:

   • The project achieved its aim of organizing the organization’s strategic operations, significantly boosting the capacity and expertise of its employees and members.
   • Employees were equipped with knowledge to increase the proportion of non-project-related revenue, implement quality management methods, and adopt a more strategic long-term approach.

3. Visibility and Representation:

   • The organization enhanced its visibility through the development of modern tools:
     • A new logo, banner, brochures, mugs, and business cards were created, which improved the organization''s representation and visibility.
     • The organization''s website was updated and improved.
   • Information was gathered on best practices for utilizing social media to further the organization''s goals.

4. Promoting Sustainability:

   • By implementing modern representation tools and methods, the project enabled the organization to present its activities in a more qualitative and contemporary way, attracting new participants to its initiatives.

1. Immediate (Short-term) Impact:

   • The organization''s representation capabilities were significantly improved. This allowed for better quality and more modern presentations of its activities, increasing engagement with the public and potential stakeholders.
   • Employees and members developed new qualifications and skills, enabling them to work more effectively within the organization.

2. Long-term Impact:

   • The strategic vision of the organization has been enhanced. Employees are now better equipped to develop and diversify the organization’s activities, ensuring sustainability and identifying new funding sources.
   • The improved capacity and visibility will enable the organization to expand its reach and impact in the community, fostering greater involvement and growth over time.

Target Groups and Beneficiaries:

The project primarily targeted the organization''s employees, members, and volunteers. By strengthening their capacities, the organization is better positioned to serve its broader target groups, including youth, youth workers, and adults, through more strategic and impactful activities.

Summary of bilateral results

The exchange visit to Norway was highly successful for "EA World-Our Home," as the organization had no previous partners in the Nordic region. This visit enabled the organization to establish new, reliable partnerships with Norwegian organizations, particularly with "Creatorium," located in a small Norwegian town. These new partnerships will support the organization in implementing future ideas and initiatives.The purpose of the trip was for "EA World-Our Home" staff to learn about the realities of the non-governmental sector in Norway, share experiences, and gain insights into youth work practices. They observed how young people are involved in various activities and decision-making processes in Norway. The exchange was also beneficial for comparing public engagement processes between Norway and the Latgale region in Latvia.Furthermore, the visit provided valuable knowledge on how to foster civic awareness among youth. Discussions included potential collaboration on organizing summer camps for children and youth, which "EA World-Our Home" plans to develop as a long-term economic activity. Already, joint project ideas with the Norwegian organization are in development, with hopes to implement them soon.