Methodology

The FCDE approach can be broken into three distinct phases. In the first phase, FCDE uses an extensive site evaluation matrix to determine locations that work most effectively with our approach. Specific attention is focused on the existing capacity of local non-profits, the breadth of services they offer and the community’s interest in being involved in development initiatives. We look for a variety of CBO’s who have reached an intermediate stage of development and work in multiple sectors.

Once an appropriate location has been identified, FCDE sets up a local office and resource center with a three person staff. FCDE will hire someone for the lead position who is from the local community who has direct experience with the region’s NGO network for the lead position. The employment of local community members to make up the FCDE site team enables a peer-based approach to capacity building activities which we have found to be more effective in transferring skills, identifying obstacles and working towards sustainability. Another of the staff positions is filled with a professional from outside the host country with international development experience to infuse the team with a diversity of development and organizational best practices. Once trained in the FCDE approach, site team begins an extensive process of engaging with the local NGO/CBO/GRO community. As part of the process of establishing formal partnerships with 15 – 25 organizations focused in FCDE’s target areas, outreach activities, such as town hall gatherings, workshops and individual meetings, are held.

FCDE’s second phase involves working with the partner organizations to better understand their organizational needs and initiate the process of capacity building. The FCDE site team uses institutional self-assessments, meetings with staff and clients as well as direct observation allowing each CBO to identify where FCDE could best provide support.

Once priorities are established, the site team leads a series of activities that address the self-identified needs of the partner organizations. Specific work plans differ depending on needs, but are generally built around a core of workshops, preparation for the support and integration of FCDE interns and volunteers, and regularly scheduled meetings with key personnel. The site team will also identify external resources, such as short term contractors or program related materials that need to be integrated at this stage of the process.

The third phase of FCDE’s approach facilitates project expansion, programmatic efficacy and helps develop new activities. FCDE provides multifaceted support to ensure a higher likelihood of project success. FCDE uses interns, seed funds (grants) and site team support to work with the CBOs in pursuit of their objectives.
At this point in the process the longer term objectives of FCDE’s development approach are supported. The capacity to develop business plans, write grants, integrate program design and management skills, and implement sound financial tools all work to enhance the long term financial viability, sustainability and impact of partner organizations.