HDI Launches Second Cohort of Its Organizational Development Program
HDI selected 13 organizations from a pool of 25 applicants to participate in its second cohort of our signature two-year, cohort-based capacity building program. The cohort member organizations hail mostly from the South Department of Haiti. Their particular programs are diverse, but they share a common passion for developing their organizations to be capable of delivering their missions.
Two leaders from each cohort member came together for the initial 2-day launch meeting of the group to sign an undertaking, hear an overview of the group training modules they will complete and the entire two year process, and bond as a cohort of learners.
Our program differs from traditional “capacity building” programs, which are often one-off or short-term trainings limited in subject scope. As anyone who has taken a training knows, it is often hard to learn enough to enable you to really change how you do your work. It may be challenging to apply the learnings in your job or organization, or doing so may require other resources that are lacking.
HDI’s program avoids these pitfalls and ensures that organizational capacity is truly built and sustained over time. Features leading to success:
Rigorous selection process. Selected organizations must demonstrate transparency, inclusion, and a mission that responds to community priorities.
Individually tailored. Interventions are guided by an in-depth organizational assessment conducted with the organization and tailored to its specific needs.
Comprehensive trainings. Topics cover governance, leadership, program planning and development, legal issues, organizational culture, ethics, impact and performance evaluations, fundraising, grant writing, financial management, marketing, communications, and civic and community engagement.
Peer learning. Leaders help facilitate sessions and coach others in areas in which their organization is strong, reinforcing their own knowledge and leadership skills.
On-site coaching. After trainings, HDI staff and consultants work with leaders in their offices to ensure that learning is adopted into the organization’s work.
Tools. HDI helps connect cohort members with the tools and resources necessary to further their work.
Long term engagement. The cohort program extends for 24 months.
HDI also fosters an ongoing network of cohort participants to provide a platform for future peer learning and collaboration.
Cohort Member Organization Leaders