Kevin started his presentation saying that it was wonderful to see so many - its our largest turnout, proving the relevance of the CVS with people taking time out to be here today.
Last year, Kevin told stories about his 1st day at CVS. He put on a pair of rubber gloves - symbolising his first job at the CVS- filling a skip full of rubbish at the office. Given its our 5th anniversary today, he put them on again to reflect on the past.
Kevin said his proudest moment was sharing a stage with Simon Hebditch (CapacityBuilders CEO) at the regional 3rd sector conference. Being an opportunist, he used the event to put up umbrella, on stage, with a large audience to signify the launch of DU. And he did the same this afternoon…….
Kevin reported that he was pleased with the launch and momentum of Digital Umbrella- highlighting the graphics work in the annual review as an example. “The reason why we’re doing this - the social purpose, is enabling, giving people tools to develop their groups” he said. “The AGM is at forefront of using, and showing people how to use technology, because of the virtual AGM and info uploaded straight away” he added..
He also illustrated another thought about the umbrella - at one of his first board meetings he had asked trustees to draw their thoughts about what the CVS was- and some came up with idea of the umbrella to shelter groups under.
Kevin went on to say that he is keen that the CVS reflects the needs of our member organisations. We’ve moved from 46 to 300+ in 5 years, showing that we are still relevant, but we need to build on that - and listen to what you see as issues.
“Reflecting on 5 years, one of major issues has been funding. We have had investment of £464k from Lottery over the last 5 years - we wouldn’t be the organisation we are today with out that contribution. I also want to thank our other investors” he said.
Chris alluded to the financial situation in the business section of the AGM- this year is far more challenging Kevin explained. One project that has made a significant contribution over the last 3 years is now “on pause” because of a lack of funding - ProHelp, despite working with 146 groups and gaining £268k investment into voluntary groups from professionals. Kevin thanked Chris, the ProHelp co-ordinator, for her contribution.
Kevin also highlighted the arts development as one that is an innovative, partnership project (between us and High Peak Borough Council), and one of few arts posts placed in the voluntary sector.
As well as the gloves and umbrella, Kevin had one more prop - the birthday hat. Kevin explained that CVS staff wear it on their birthday. He said “I’ve talked about money - but the key thing is people. The hat is one thing that helps lighten pressured environment”
Finally, Kevin brought tighter the analogy of birthdays and birthday cake. What are the ingredients that go into the CVS cake? What is in the mix?
- Dedication from board and staff
- Innovation, celebrate
- Visionary
- Persistent
- Don’t take no for an answer
And the bottom line - when things need to be done “staff roll up sleeves and get on with it”
Kevin asked people to think about the ingredients you require from us for “the cake” you get from us as members.
