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Right now, one of the most important things community groups do is build social cohesion
Posted on 17 Jul 2024
The importance of strong communities has never been more apparent.
Posted on 12 Jun 2024
By Adele Stowe-Lindner, general manager, Institute of Community Directors Australia
AGMs are sometimes seen as irritating annual bureaucratic hurdles, as meetings that must be held merely to fulfil legal obligations. However, to community organisations, they can present a valuable opportunity.
First, they can be a wonderful way to build a sense of community. You can encourage this by promoting the AGM as a social event. Offer a warm environment that reflects the welcoming nature of your organisation, and provide snacks and drinks to encourage people to stick around after the formalities, to connect with one another. The AGM can promote collaboration among members and encourage networking and sharing of ideas to increase the organisation’s impact.
Organisations can choose how transparent they wish to be and how much information they wish to share regarding the financial position of the organisation and its impact. Keep in mind, though, that transparency in reporting financials, operations and outcomes builds trust with members and stakeholders by demonstrating accountability and the responsible management of resources. Good news stories can be shared with the wider community via the AGM.
As AGMs often attract well-networked people who are heavily invested in the organisation, they provide a platform on which organisational leaders can share key messages and see them disseminated throughout the broader community. To this end, leaders should share compelling stories, highlight achievements, and articulate a vision that energises and inspires commitment to the organisation's cause.
Posted on 17 Jul 2024
The importance of strong communities has never been more apparent.
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