The CADIS conference in Cebu continues at full speed even on the second day.
After the inspiration-filled first day dedicated to the various CADIS and CTF realities in the Asia-Pacific region, participants had the opportunity to get involved through a series of workshops.
Fr. Siby Khaitaran, CTF India, facilitated the session dedicated to “The Backbone of CADIS: the role of volunteers, engagement and donor management.” A key topic for operations, especially emergency ones, which India regularly faces. The climate emergency affects various areas of India with increasingly violent and frequent floods, and government aid often fails to reach all affected areas. Thanks to the presence of 2,000 volunteers throughout the country, CTF India is able to immediately provide assistance to the most remote areas and reach communities in situations of extreme vulnerability.
For an organization, volunteers are an invaluable resource. People who dedicate their time with passion and commitment to a common cause are perhaps one of the greatest assets one can have. Moreover, feeling part of something bigger gives hope that real change can truly take shape. CTF India is a real example of this.
Next, Fr. Mars Digal, from CADIS Taiwan, introduced another key and essential topic for non-profit organizations: “Networking strategies and collaborative fundraising specific to the CADIS mission.” Fundraising is always a complex topic that requires attention, resources, and systematic effort. Being able to count, for their missions, on the concrete support of individuals, other organizations, and companies or congregations, is the engine that drives CADIS to launch emergency projects, but above all, long-term ones. To see real change in the vulnerable population assisted, time, planning, human and economic resources are needed. CADIS Taiwan is a successful example of how the trust of people who regularly donate to a common cause can truly bring about improvement. Furthermore, not least, is the interreligious collaboration that is created, based on mutual respect and trust.
Based on the experience of the CADIS Taiwan fundraising team, participants were involved in a practical simulation to immerse themselves even more in fundraising and resource mobilization activities, with the aim of engaging new potential donors and partners.
Finally, Fr. Michael Gimena, from CADIS Australia, brought to the participants' attention the topic of the “Organization of CADIS Ambassadors.”
A new opportunity for CADIS which, thanks to Australia's positive experience, can become systematic in order to spread the vision, mission, and values of CADIS as widely as possible around the world.
In this regard, the two CADIS Australia ambassadors who actively participate in the organized activities spoke.
Chymbeelyn de Pasion and Ma. Sofia Valdez, ranked first and second respectively in the “Faces of Australia Queensland” competition. Through their story, they shared their experience that led them to come into contact with CADIS Australia and become its official ambassadors, with the aim of raising awareness among a new segment of the population about the emergencies of our times. CADIS Australia, always at the forefront in Sydney to help the most vulnerable in the community, is a practical example of how organizing charity events, volunteer activities, and involving young women with a significant social following can help the entire community. Furthermore, the involvement of young ambassadors can mark a starting point for the national expansion of CADIS Australia.
Many reflections and just as many ideas to work on in the coming months and years, seeking to involve more and more volunteers, donors, and supporters of CADIS International around the world.
