On June, 24th the Give and Gain project took place in 16 different countries, including the Czech Republic. Here almost three hundred volunteers have not spent their day behind desks and computers as usually, but they rather volunteered in 38 different non-profit organisations doing various activities from creative and technical aid to physically demanding outsider works.
Group of 6 volunteers including Mrs. Pavlína Kalousová, the Director of Development of the Donors Forum, partner organisation of Business for Society, volunteered as an expert help in organisation Creative Workshops.
With regard to its legal existence, Creative Workshops is a very young organization. Until May 2003 the founders of this association operated as a non-registered group of volunteers themselves, who took part in carrying out various free-time activities and single integration events for young disabled people. Many small gifts and decorative products are made by their clients during the social-work therapy. Through this activity, they are able to develop many important skills which are useful in the labour market as well as in social interaction.
Summary
The main aim of the project was an expert help from volunteers that came from companies like ING, Santé, Kooperativa and others. Volunteers were asked to use their professional and personal expertise in the area of marketing and financial planning. Since the Creative Workshops is financing itself by selling small gifts and decorative products, it is essential for them to have a concrete plan in order to create more effective and long-term cooperation with other companies and public sector, which would enhance the selling of products.
Concretely was the meeting based on following points:
- which potential customers should be addressed and how
- which products are currently requested / what kinds of products will most likely approach customers
- with what and how should they motivate customers in order for them to be interested in cooperation with the organisation
Impact
Volunteers from ING, Santé, PwC, Kooperativa and Donors Forum worked on a plan which would enhance the products sale because until now it was financing the functioning of the organization only partly. The project enriched both sides. Many new ideas that would help the organization with self-financing were created. Volunteers also gave representatives of the Creative Workshops useful tips and contacts on companies focused on marketing which would help Creative Workshops present their products and work to wider public. Another meeting is planned on September / October during which will volunteers along with representatives reflect and evaluate suggested changes.
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