Community Relations Department [Equity, Diversity and Interdependence]
Introduction
The Community Relations team’s primary role is to support local YMCA work. This is done by raising awareness of the equity, diversity and interdependence issues within local associations and the wider movement, supporting the development of appropriate strategies and, responding to the identified need, design and deliver training and learning opportunities that will support the work in each context. This involves working locally, regionally, nationally and internationally, gaining insight and perspective from these settings.
Strategic Goals
Between 2003 and 2006 the community relations department will provide local support through the Community Relations team by pursuing the following goals:
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Raise greater awareness of Community Relations issues and practice.
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Develop and implement a strategy to further embed the principles of Equity, Diversity and Interdependence throughout the YMCA movement and build capacity for future action.
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Establish bespoke Community Relations training and support opportunities for staff, volunteers and local community activists to match local needs.
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Deliver a more concentrated CR training programme [‘Living with Diversity’ LWD (NIOCN Accredited)] to workers and volunteers within and outside the YMCA.
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Develop community Relations strategies and programmes responding to local and regional needs.
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Facilitate an international programme and bursary scheme developing existing links with international partners that utilises learning and reflection on the conflict situation in Ireland.
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Methodology
The Community Relations team will engage with Management committees, general secretaries, other staff and volunteers to provide forums for discussion, individual support and direct training as identified and requested by local associations. The goals outlined will directly support the ‘Standards initiative’ through joint work with associations. Building strong relationships, identifying need and building quality are primary concerns that build the overall YMCA ‘team/community’
Resources
This work will be the primary responsibility of the Community Relations Co-ordinator, the Community Relations development officer and the Banbridge Community Relations Project Co-ordinator. It will be funded by Peace II European funding received from Community Relations Council (CRC) and International Fund for Ireland (IFI) Community bridges. This funding is secure until December 2005.
YMCA Ireland
Memorial House
Waring Street
Belfast
BT1 2EU
t: RoI 021 4850 015