Writer: Thuy Van - Volunteer Coordinator
Written on: 15 August 2024
This August, Catalyst for Change Vietnam (C4C) embarked on a special journey to Nagpur, India, to participate in the weltwärts Partner Workshop. Hosted by our esteemed German partner organization, Deutsch-Indische Zusammenarbeit e. V. (DIZ), this four-day event brought together over 25 representatives from NGOs across India, Nepal, and Vietnam, all united by a common goal: to create a brighter future for women and children.
Learning and Sharing for Greater Impact
Our team at C4C was eager to dive into discussions and workshops focused on enhancing the volunteer experience, and we weren't disappointed. The workshop was a dynamic space for exchanging knowledge, best practices, and innovative ideas.
One session that particularly resonated with us explored the best practices for volunteer coordination. A story shared by one of our Indian partners truly brought this concept to life. He recounted a time when he found himself in Germany for just a single day. On a whim, he reached out to a handful of German volunteers who had previously volunteered with his organization in India. To his surprise and delight, despite the short notice, these former volunteers rallied together, eager to reconnect and share their city with him. They spent the day showing him the sights, sharing stories, and strengthening the bonds forged through their shared experience.
This heartwarming story underscored the incredible power of a strong alumni network. It's more than just staying in touch – it's about cultivating a global community where volunteers feel connected and supported long after their formal program ends. It's about knowing that no matter where life takes you, you have a network of like-minded individuals who share your passion for making a difference. This experience solidified our commitment at C4C to build and nurture our own alumni community, fostering those same enduring connections that transcend borders and time zones.
Another valuable session focused on Child Rights Policy, reinforcing the essential considerations we must keep in mind when working with our beneficiaries. It's been over 30 years since the landmark Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) was adopted in 1989, yet its principles remain as relevant as ever. We delved into the CRC's four core pillars – survival, development, protection, and participation – and how they guide our work. To ensure these rights are protected, all C4C staff receive comprehensive training on child rights and protection, and our volunteers pledge to uphold our Child Protection Policy.
C4C Takes the Lead: Sharing Our Expertise
We were also thrilled to have the opportunity to share C4C’s own innovations. In an open session, we presented on "How to Use the Lark Platform for Managing Volunteers." Our team demonstrated how we utilize Lark's database and dashboard features to streamline communication, track volunteer progress, and generate real-time reports for data-driven decision-making. The enthusiastic response from our Indian partners was incredibly rewarding and a testament to the power of collaborative learning.
This collaborative spirit extended beyond the formal sessions. During the workshop's "Bazaar," where organizations showcased their work and products, we had the pleasure of sharing gifts from Her Craft, a C4C initiative that supports single mothers through sustainable livelihood opportunities. These beautiful, handmade gifts served as a tangible representation of C4C’s commitment to empowering women and fostering cross-cultural connections. We hope these small tokens will serve as a reminder of the shared passion and purpose that unite us all.
New Insights for a Stronger Future
The Partner Workshop was filled with "aha!" moments for C4C. We gained invaluable insights into strengthening our volunteer programs, including:
The Buddy System: Pairing new volunteers with experienced mentors for guidance and support, and with local friends to socialize and expand local knowledge.
Enhanced Training and Coordination: Providing comprehensive pre-departure training that covers cultural sensitivity, practical skills, and essential information about Vietnam.
ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Training: Integrating sustainability and ethical practices into all aspects of our work, involving both internal staff and stakeholders.
We are committed to implementing these learnings to enhance the volunteer experience and maximize our impact.
Thank You, DIZ!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Deutsch-Indische Zusammenarbeit e. V. for organizing such an enriching and impactful Partner Workshops. We connected with inspiring organizations like the Rural Development Organization and Symbolic Trust, sparking exciting ideas for future partnerships and program expansion. The experience has strengthened our bond, deepened our understanding of cross-cultural collaboration, and equipped us with new tools and perspectives to better serve our communities.
Inspired to Make a Difference?
If you are passionate about creating positive change in the lives of women and children, consider joining the C4C family as a volunteer. We provide a supportive and immersive experience where you can make a tangible impact while forging lasting connections.
Let's work together to be a catalyst for change!
Comments