Case Study: The Training Links Team (Mar 2024)

What is the name of your Training Network?

Our Training Network is called the Training Links Team. It is made up of 10 volunteer centres from across the country.

What is the goal of your Training Network?

The primary goal of our Training Links Team is to empower Volunteer Centre staff with knowledge about emerging technologies. We aim to enhance their capabilities in delivering services and providing support to Volunteer Involving Organisations. This mission is pursued through a thoughtful combination of in-person peer-to-peer training and virtual training sessions. 
 

Tell us what you have been able to achieve with this grant

The grant has been instrumental in achieving significant milestones for the Training Links Team. Collaborating with 10 Volunteer Centres, our focus was on developing a training module that would equip Volunteer Centre staff with insights into emerging technologies. Throughout this journey, we engaged with professionals from the sector, including Diana Bere, Stephen Gray, Elaine Sheridan, Natasza Wdowicka, and Mariana Vieira da Rocha. 

The training modules covered a spectrum of topics, ranging from "Creating a Digital Experience" to "Mapping Organizational Digital Maturity" and "Developing Digital Engagement of Volunteers." This collaboration allowed us to create a well-rounded insight into technology and its applications relevant to the community and voluntary sector. Leveraging these insights, we successfully rolled out the training module to staff in volunteer centers across the county. 

Tell us about the impact having this fund has made

The impact of the fund has been substantial, offering the Training Links Team a unique opportunity to delve into technology and its practical applications. Particularly relevant during the pandemic, this exploration showcased the community voluntary sector's adaptability to tech advancements, evident in the widespread use of platforms like Zoom and Google Meets. 

One significant outcome was the assessment of technologies actively used by Volunteer Centres. This understanding became a key driver in tailoring our training delivery to meet the specific needs of these centers. The training sessions not only addressed the fear of being left behind in the rapidly advancing tech landscape but also fostered eagerness among participants to learn and improve service delivery. 

What value does being involved in the Training Links Network bring to the
organisations in your network?

Participation in the Training Links Network offers Volunteer Centre staff a secure and supportive space to explore both their concerns and enthusiasm regarding technology. 

Given their substantial role in supporting local communities, these opportunities for networking and shared learning are invaluable contributors to the growth and development of the entire network. The collaborative atmosphere allows for the exchange of experiences and ideas, further enriching the collective knowledge of the Volunteer Centres involved. 
 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

As someone that has a great interest in technology, it was a pleasure to be a small part of this process, and to provide support and insight to my colleagues across the Volunteer Centre network. It was a very enjoyable process of learning, and sharing. I am sure some of the tools discussed will enhance service delivery in centres across the country, particularly in supporting volunteer-involving organisations. 


By Adam Lacey
Manager and Vetting Liaison Person
Cork Volunteer Centre