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Organisational governance

BLACKMAN, Rachel
2006

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This resource is aimed primarily at Christian development organisations, but the principles and operational structures can be applied to other organisations. It focuses on organisational governance, the process of overseeing an organisation, looking in particular at how governing bodies should operate and lead an organisation. Section 1 analyses the role of the board and explains how its remit and responsibilities differ from those of the CEO. Section 2 reviews two key competencies, delegating authority and responsibility and developing policies. Section 3 looks at the main responsibilities of the board, including recruiting and supporting of the CEO; identifying mission, vision and values of the organisation; strategic planning; fulfilling legal requirements; identifying funding sources; and assessing progress. Section 4 looks in some detail at key operational aspects such as roles of board members, recruitment of new members and internal board policies. Section 5 suggests ways of making the board more effective, through the proper use of committees, agenda for meetings, chairing of board meetings, minute taking, sharing information, decision-making and board development

HIV and AIDS : taking action

BLACKMAN, Rachel
2005

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The aim of this book is to help Christian development organisations to consider their response to the challenges brought by HIV and AIDS. This often involves mobilising and working with local churches. This book is not just for organisations that carry out specific projects linked to HIV and AIDS. The book looks at what HIV and AIDS are and how HIV spreads. It then looks at different types of responses to the AIDS epidemic, both preventing the spread of HIV and reducing the impact of HIV and AIDS. Bible studies, case studies about work carried out by Tearfund partners and reflection questions are used to help organisations think through what their response might be

Responding to children affected by HIV and AIDS : using external support to strengthen community initiative and motivation

WEAVER, Richard
October 2004

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Substantive international action on HIV and AIDS is not translating into effective responses for those worst affected by the epidemic, particularly children. Instead, it is community-based organisations and community initiatives which are most successful in reaching out to these children, often without being resourced by external sources. This briefing paper highlights the responses and lessons learned by a number of Southern-based partner organisations, and makes recommendations for DFID and other donors

Facilitation skills workbook

CLARKE, Sophie
BLACKMAN, Rachel
CARTER, Isabel
2004

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This workbook on facilitation skills provides training material for people who plan to use PILLARS Guides in their local communities. It can be used as part of regular training sessions or can be delivered as a five day workshop. Participants will become familiar with the content of several PILLARS Guides and learn how to adapt their use. They will gain participatory learning skills, understand the qualities and skills of a good facilitator and gain confidence in using PILLARS Guides with community groups. The training uses participatory methods and role play

Guide our steps : 101 participatory Bible studies on development issues

CARTER, Isabel
2004

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This is a tool for communities and groups willing to reflect on the Scripture and Christian understanding of development issues. Covers a wide range of topics, including environment, advocacy, nutrition, water and sanitation, health disasters but also church's role and spiritual growth. Each topic is briefly commented, and provided with a relevant passage from the Bible and a set of questions to guide discussion during group meetings and workshops

Mobilising the church : a PILLARS guide

CARTER, Isabel
2004

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Churches are often at the forefront in helping the poor and supporting communities, playing a role that goes beyond biblical teaching and spiritual support. This guide provides church members with material for discussion, designed to help churches to successfully manage their interventions, understand their role in the community, develop facilitation skills, increase confidence in their ability to carry out practical work and activities, improve relationships with other organisations and encourage openness and sharing of differing views. Drawing on key passages of the Bible, this guide consists of a brief introduction to each topic, accompanied by a set of questions designed to encourage group discussion

Fundraising

BLACKMAN, Rachel
2004

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This book is a practical, easy to read guide for development organisations looking to diversify their funding base. It offers a step by step approach to creating a funding strategy; an overview of the different types of funding sources available; and considers ethical fundraising principles specifically from a Christian viewpoint. There are also suggestion as to how the material might be adapted to a workshop setting. Case studies from local NGOs in developing countries provide real life examples of fundraising and the lessons learned. This resource is also available online in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese

Children in residential care and alternatives

MILES, Glenn
STEPHENSON, Paul
January 2001

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Residential Care and Alternatives is based on child development and protection principles. Tearfund is a Christian organisation and the document makes a number of references to Christian scripture and values. It could be a useful tool for helping Christian organisations that provide, or that are considering providing, residential care to explore better care alternatives or improving the quality of residential care

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