Artificial Intelligence (AI) is often described as the defining technology of our age.

While some express concern about its trajectory, AI's presence is undeniable. Many organisations in the voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector have already recognised its potential, embracing AI to enhance their work.

According to the 2024 Charity Digital Skills Report, 61 per cent of surveyed charity groups are already using AI in their day-to-day operations.

But what exactly is AI? Dr Google defines it as “a set of technologies that enable computers to perform a variety of advanced functions, including the ability to see, understand, and translate spoken and written language, analyse data, make recommendations, and more.”

These functions also include learning, problem-solving, and decision-making, all of which are crucial in today’s digital landscape.

For small community groups, AI can significantly enhance effectiveness.

At North Herts & Stevenage CVS, we’ve seen how AI can help streamline operations, especially in the face of increasing demand and limited resources.

By automating administrative tasks such as data entry, scheduling, and communication, AI frees up valuable time for staff and volunteers to focus on their core missions.

Additionally, AI-driven tools can improve decision-making by examining data trends, predicting outcomes and providing insights that inform fundraising strategies, outreach, and service delivery.

Personalisation is another area where AI shines.

It allows groups to tailor their services to meet the specific needs of individuals and communities.

For many groups, tools like ChatGPT enhance outreach and engagement by optimising social media campaigns, improving website content, crafting funding bids, and processing community feedback.

These efforts can lead to increased visibility, stronger community ties, and more effective advocacy. Some groups even use AI to produce minutes from online meetings, a feature many find invaluable.

The National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) acknowledges AI's potential to significantly enhance the work of UK charities. However, they also highlight challenges, including the need for upskilling and concerns about data security and ethical use.

Are you an executive member of staff, or on the board or management committee of a local community group?

Do you use AI, or are you curious to learn more? If so, this is your opportunity.

Thanks to the support of one of the experts in the field, the University of Hertfordshire, North Herts & Stevenage CVS is offering a special ‘AI for Charities’ training session online from 10am to noon on Tuesday, September 17.

Don’t miss this chance to enhance your organisation’s impact.

These two hours could change the course of your group’s future. For more details and to register, visit https://bit.ly/3TcEo4W or email info@nhcvs.org.uk