ALMOST 40 charity and voluntary organisations from the Isle of Man were represented at a charity training fair held last weekend.
The event was organised by the Isle of Man Council of Voluntary Organisations (CVO) and featured 16 workshops covering topics affecting third sector organisations.
Charities and organisations learnt about fundraising, governance, finance, event organisation, publicity, writing reports and recruitment.
David Gawne, communications director for the Isle of Man CVO, said: "The whole weekend was most successful and it is doubtful if we could have accommodated many more attendees.
"Not only was it successful in this regard but the networking over the two days was in itself of considerable value.
"It was also pleasing to see new faces and to welcome a wide variety of diverse interests across the full range of the voluntary sector.
"The charity training fair also demonstrated a considerable appetite for information and training in many organisations in order to ensure that they are working appropriately in the current climate and the recognition that we all need to work together.
"Over the two days it was very obvious that the programme hit the right note and many people were making suggestions as to what they would like including next time. Inter-organisational contacts were established which in some cases will grow into mutually advantageous relationships.
"Considering that the programme was spread over late Friday and Saturday there was a clear demonstration of the willingness of volunteers and paid staff to give up their time to benefit the community."
Mr Gawne added: "The CVO would also like to express its appreciation to the employment division of the Department of Economic Development whose training grant enabled the CVO to put on the weekend at an affordable cost which was undoubtedly an influencing factor with some of the smaller organisations.
"The CVO is a fledgling organisation but the success of this weekend illustrates that it plays an essential role within the sector and is much needed in the current climate giving the third sector a united voice."
The charity training fair was held at the St John's Mill Centre on November 25 and 26.
