Organized by Points of Light (POL), the Global Gathering is an event designed exclusively for the executive leaders of POL affiliate organizations and has as a focus, the collective impact of this global network. Volunteer Fairfax’s CEO, Jennifer Williamson, had the opportunity to attend this year’s Global Gathering from February 18-20 in Manila Philippines at no cost to Volunteer Fairfax thanks to the financial support of Points of Light and UPS.
During her time in Manila, Williamson connected with executive leaders from organizations like Volunteer Fairfax from around the globe. They gathered to discuss and share ideas about talent management, strategic planning, board management and fundraising – priorities which build robust and sustainable organizations. Strategy initiatives including establishing a common network goal were also discussed.
In addition, she had the opportunity to experience the unique culture of the host country through volunteer activities organized by the event co-host, Hands On Manila. The Volunteer Project: Cleaner Waterways, One Bokashi Ball at a Time (about Bokashi Balls) was one of them. Williamson said, “volunteering together is a wonderful team building and bonding activity. We literally got our hands dirty as we discussed our organizational and community challenges”.
The Global Gathering is an exceptional platform for nonprofit and NGO leaders to collaborate and innovate together. For Jennifer, the opportunity offered a safe space for executive leaders to share and explore complex challenges and discuss solutions and strategies.
Williamson added that “by the end of the Global Gathering, I had a notebook full of ideas and strategies to bring back to Volunteer Fairfax, a renewed dedication to the important work we do, and a deeper network of professional peers across the globe.”
Volunteer Fairfax and Points of Light
Volunteer Fairfax has been affiliated with Points of Light for more than 30 years. Points of Light is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring, equipping, and mobilizing volunteers to take actions that improve the world.