Silesian Third Sector Network

In response to the need for effective networks bringing together NGOs in the Silesian Voivodeship, we are launching the „Silesian Third Sector Network”. This project is aimed at non-governmental organisations in our region wishing to actively collaborate with local government and other NGOs in pursuing their statutory objectives and in the development of the third sector. Working together increases the effectiveness of our efforts, creating the image of a competent partner, and, through synergy, enables us to achieve much better results. 

Idea

In the Silesian Voivodeship, there is no permanent and active network bringing together NGOs from at least 50% districts. There are 15 networks in operation; however, given that there are 9,858 registered NGOs in the region (according to mojapolis.pl), this is insufficient. Furthermore, their activities are characterised by low potential and limited development, which results in average effectiveness. The reasons for the current state of affairs can be found in a lack of adequate preparation for network management and in a deficit of practical knowledge regarding active, effective and synergistic cooperation, based on long-term action strategies and a participatory approach to the tasks undertaken, whether at the planning, implementation, promotion, funding or evaluation stages.

Objectives of the initiative

The main aim of the project is to establish a single network bringing together at least 30 organisations from among those already operating in Silesia, along with their members and other interested non-governmental organisations, based on close cooperation and shared principles, which is intended to ensure access to appropriate services that boost motivation to be part of the network and to achieve objectives through mutual cooperation. These activities will contribute to increasing the potential of the third sector in the Silesian Voivodeship and building a common NGO brand, thereby enhancing the positive image of the organisations comprising it as reliable and competent partners in public sector activities. Furthermore, there are plans to include new NGOs in the network that meet the criteria and are ready to cooperate in accordance with the network’s operating principles. In total, 130 organisations from at least 19 counties will be included in the project.

Given that networks are only as strong as their weakest link, it is essential to introduce uniform standards for all network members to ensure they can develop evenly. Such standards for NGOs were developed as part of the „Tap for Transparency” project (covering formal and legal, transparency and ethical standards) and received a high quality rating from the NGOs that have implemented them.

It is crucial to make full use of the expertise of the network of organisations to establish a dialogue with local authorities and to undertake joint initiatives. In providing support under the project, the focus will be on all aspects affecting the effectiveness of NGOs’ operations, including, amongst other things:

  • defining the mission, standards and funding principles of the network that influence its long-term operational strategy
  • implementation of standards
  • improving the skills and motivation of NGO members and volunteers
  • improving the quality of operations of the five existing NGO networks
  • to promote integration within the sector and enhance the implementation capacity of the network’s members by improving their knowledge and skills in the areas of cooperation and the implementation of partnership projects
  • the establishment of a formal cooperation network bringing together at least 130 NGOs

The project aims to ensure the active involvement of NGO representatives in the activities undertaken and to enhance their skills in the area of network cooperation (including joint grant-seeking and promotional activities), to improve communication between individual members of the network, and to provide support in problem-solving.

Further information

Further information about the Network and its activities can be found at www.slaskasiec.pl

The project, carried out in partnership with the ‘Razem’ Forum in Zabrze and the Forum of Non-Governmental Organisations of the Central Subregion, was co-financed by the European Union under the European Social Fund