Voluntary, community and faith groups, and social enterprises bridge the gap in public and privately available services and enrich the lives of many.

In Hertfordshire organisations such as Reach Out, who offer companionship to older people, enhance the wellbeing and health of the community.

The VCFSE sector often leads the way on environmental sustainability too, just look at the impact of Letchworth Garden Shed, Level Ground Co. and Jo Sust. Consulting.

Fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit, organisations create jobs and can also contribute to the local economy.

As the Centre for Voluntary Services in North Hertfordshire and Stevenage, we see the immense benefit of groups working together.

Collaboration in the VCFSE sector is more than a strategy; it’s a vital pathway to creating sustainable and impactful change.

When leaders in our sector connect, we open the door to partnerships that share resources, expertise, and ultimately enhance community transformation.

As well as the potential to simultaneously address multiple needs, partnerships offer organisations diverse perspectives to foster innovation, the opportunity to reduce costs and pool assets, risk mitigation and stronger long-term stability.

What's more, partnerships can make organisations more attractive to funders who prefer collaborative approaches, increasing the likelihood of securing grants and donations

When organisations in our sector connect and collaborate, they amplify their impact and create holistic, resilient solutions that truly uplift our communities.

A recent survey of our VCFSE members indicated the need for more opportunities in our region to connect and develop these vital relationships.

A space for group leaders to come together for mutual support and shared problem-solving. And so, our new CEO Network was born.

Meeting quarterly, leaders, founders or CEOs of voluntary, community and faith groups, and social enterprises in Hertfordshire will now get the chance to regularly strategize and problem solve.

During these sessions we’ll facilitate relationship building, to open the door to partnerships that share resources, expertise, and ultimately amplify everybody’s impact.

If you’re a leader of a voluntary organisation enriching the lives of those in North Hertfordshire and Stevenage, join our CEO Network to discover the transformative potential of connecting and collaboration.

Email tatiana@nhcvs.org.uk to receive your invitation to November’s networking meeting, Wednesday, November 27, 2024.

As the centre for volunteering services for North Herts and Stevenage, we equip community groups, charities & volunteers with the knowledge to thrive.

Learn more about how we help organisations reach their potential at www.nhcvs.org.uk.