Data-driven focus at CVSS’s National Volunteer conference

The critical need for robust data collection and analysis to validate the contributions of civil society organisations (CSOs) in Jamaica was the theme of the Council of Voluntary Social Services’ (CVSS) 2024 National Volunteer Conference.

Key speakers emphasised that without reliable metrics, the pivotal role of these organisations in social and economic development remains undervalued.

Nancy Pinchas, executive director of the CVSS, opened the conference by setting the stage for discussions that would illustrate how data can transform the perception of the volunteer or ‘third sector’.

“We must collect and analyse data to demonstrate our impact, not just for visibility but for accountability and impact,” she stated. She underscored the inadequacy of existing metrics, asserting that comprehensive data on the volunteer sector is largely missing. “For effective planning and resource allocation, we need to know what the needs are and how we can meet them,” she noted.

She reiterated that every dollar invested in social programming undertaken by a CSO generates substantial economic and social returns. This perspective is supported by existing studies but remains largely undocumented in Jamaica, limiting the sector’s influence on policy decisions.

Panel discussions focused on the introduction of tangible metrics to measure the impact of CSOs, highlighting the necessity of creating a framework for ongoing measurement of the nonprofit sector’s value. “Data is not just a collection of numbers; it tells the story of our contributions and helps articulate our cases to stakeholders, funders, and the public,” Pinchas explained.

IMPACT PROGRAMME LAUNCHED

Delegates who attended the conference learned that some European countries have successfully implemented satellite accounts in their national accounting systems, which have provided essential insights into the resilience and significance of the third sector, especially in times of crisis.

The CVSS’s executive director called for Jamaica to adopt similar methods, stating, “The third sector is a vital pillar of our economy, and we must ensure its contributions are recognised.”

The conference also launched the Civil Society Impact Programme, developed in collaboration with the Violence Prevention Alliance. This initiative aims to create a micro-level data collection strategy to document the impact of individual organisations, ultimately contributing to a comprehensive sector-wide assessment.

“By employing this pilot programme, we can begin to quantify what we know to be invaluable,” said Pinchas, emphasising the need for evidence to support CSOs’ claims of societal impact.

Aniceto Rodriguez Ruiz, head of cooperation at the EU who addressed the conference, emphasised that for CSOs like CVSS to fully engage in governance and development, they must operate within an enabling legal and policy environment. He remarked, “The ideal environment is one in which there is conducive institutional and capacity building that supports the growth and full participation of civil society.”

Reflecting on the progress made since last year’s launch of the AIM programme, under which the conference was held, he expressed his satisfaction at witnessing the positive developments initiated by CSOs, particularly the CVSS. “I’m twice happier today to be here one year later to see the continuation of the good work being done under this civil society organisation’s initiative,” he noted.

ADDRESS SYSTEMIC INEQUALITIES

The AIM project, seeks to develop capacities for a wide cross-section of organisations, creating local champions to advocate for a more enabling environment.

Richard Jones, executive director of the Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC) who was the guest speaker of the conference informed that the CPDC is setting its sights on enhancing its engagement and advocacy efforts in Jamaica, aiming to empower local communities and address systemic inequalities.

He expressed optimism about expanding their initiatives in Jamaica, highlighting the importance of advocacy in promoting social justice, public health, environmental protection, and good governance. “We believe that this is going to come to fruition, and we look forward to this being a catalyst for us to be doing much more work and engagement in Jamaica,” he stated.

The conference which was a component of the EU-funded 30-month intervention to strengthen civil society as actors of governance and development was held at the Terra Nova Hotel under the theme ‘‘Voice, Visibility and Influence: Creating a Lasting Impact’ . The conference also received endorsements from local organisations such as National Baking Company Limited, JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation, Sandals Foundation Supreme Ventures. Also lending support were JPS and Barita Foundation.