In the ever-changing financial landscape, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) find themselves constantly reassessing their fundraising capabilities. The need to adapt current strategies and explore new funding sources is particularly pressing for organizations that were once reliant on foreign grants. Caritas India, recognizing the evolving landscape of resource mobilization, has strategically embraced Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a gateway to tap into partnerships with companies sharing similar objectives, thereby ensuring a significant source of funding.

The recent capacity-building workshop organized by Caritas India’s Institute of Development Learning and Action (CIDAL) focused on legal compliance and resource mobilization. The Three-Days workshop from 27-29 February 2024, at the Karnataka Regional Organization for Social Service was not merely an event; it marked a crucial step in capacitating Diocesan Social Service Societies, providing them with the tools to effectively build and sustain resources while fostering meaningful partnerships.

Resource mobilization, a key action under the Sharing Community pillar of Caritas India, catalyzes building a sustainable future for the organization. The workshop offered participants detailed insights into CSR funding compliance, outlining numerous steps and strategies to fulfill these requirements. Caritas India, in its engagement with Diocesan Social Service Societies under various developmental programs, strategically promotes its organizational pillars, ensuring harmonization and unification in operational areas through diverse developmental initiatives.

Through 13 Regional Fora, Caritas India emphasizes institutional strengthening by mainstreaming strategic pillars in regional plans and disseminating them at the Diocesan level. The focus on Sharing Community includes strengthening resource development, generating support from Corporate Social Responsibility, companies, and corporate foundations—making it a strategic priority. The three-day workshop geared towards preparing organizations to meet CSR requirements from a corporate perspective played a pivotal role in fostering this strategic action.

The workshop brought together 32 Diocesan representatives, three Regional Forums, and a Congregation from across the nation. The inaugural address by Fr. (Dr.) Jolly Puthenpura, the Assistant Executive Director of Caritas India, set the tone for the event. Recognizing the global significance of NGOs, he highlighted the role of NGOs in supporting the upliftment of the poorest of the poor and contributing to national and global development.

Fr. Jolly emphasized the importance of streamlined operations, taking note of legal requirements, rules, and regulations mandated by the government. He stressed that the crux of a credible and reliable organization lies in having good management in place, urging all participants to adhere to governmental regulations.

Moreover, Fr. Jolly reiterated that successful resource development transcends merely raising funds; it involves mobilizing social capital, particularly in the form of volunteers, into the ministry’s journey. He encouraged participants to collaborate collectively as a team for the mission of Christ, focusing on leveraging local resources to propel their mission forward.

Fr. Anil Crasta, the former Director of ORBIT, facilitated the extensive 2.5-day sessions, initiating discussions on self-introspection and the identification of gaps hindering successful social work operations. Emphasizing the need for a legally sound organization from a CSR perspective, he outlined parameters for organizational strength, including legal compliance, governance, human resources, information system management, accounting and finance, marketing, fundraising, MEAL framework, and vision and leadership.

Participants experienced a comprehensive review of some Diocesan Social Service Society Bylaws, receiving positive feedback on areas of improvement related to organizational objectives, operational areas, thematic sectors, and governance. The workshop shed light on the fundraising process, emphasizing the importance of donor mapping, starting from the ‘Self-Me’ concept, extending to family, relatives, classmates, friends, and the parish community. Marketing and media management emerged as vital tools to showcase thematic expertise, partnerships, networking, and innovation through model case studies.

Mrs. Joyce M Pereira, a Freelancer with 23 years of experience in the social developmental sector, shared her expertise in Resource Mobilization, Fundraising through funding agencies, and online platforms, along with insights into legal compliances. Her session provided a glimpse into fundraising methodology, elucidating different dimensions such as Individual giving, Corporate Sponsorship-Partnership, Events and campaign methods, and Online Fundraising.

The workshop’s impact was profound, leaving participants overwhelmed and thoughtfully engaged. By the conclusion, they committed to becoming compatible and reliable partners for CSR companies. Their commitment extends to reviewing their Bylaws, aligning them with the current organizational standing and incorporating approaches to achieve the vision and mission. This process will be embedded through their Governing Board meetings, resulting in a feasible action plan.

Caritas India’s strategic approach to capacitating Diocesan Social Service Societies goes beyond immediate challenges, focusing on sustainable resource building and fostering meaningful partnerships through CSR initiatives. The commitment to legal compliance, systematic resource mobilization, and fostering collaborative partnerships positions Caritas India at the forefront of promoting social development and a just society in India.