Rebecca Barraclough

Traditional volunteerism has long been rooted in goodwill, but a new wave of community support is taking shape, one where individuals contribute their specific talents and knowledge to drive sustainable change. Skill-based volunteering is no longer just a trend; it is becoming the future of how communities grow and thrive. This model of giving back involves professionals and experts donating their time through specialized services. From web development to grant writing to financial consulting, these efforts deliver targeted support to organizations that often lack access to such resources. As a result, communities benefit from smarter, more strategic solutions that have long-term impact. Filling the Gaps Where It Matters Most Many community-based organizations operate with minimal staff and tight budgets. While they may have passionate teams, they often lack access to the advanced skills needed to scale their impact. This is where skill-based volunteers step in, offering valuable serv...

Organizations invest heavily in hiring, yet the true return on that investment depends on how well employees are supported after they join. Training materials play a central role in shaping employee capability, confidence, and long-term success. When training is poorly designed or treated as a one-time activity, employees may struggle to grow, adapt, or perform consistently over time. Creating training materials that support long-term employee success requires a strategic, learner-focused approach. These materials must evolve with the organization, align with real work demands, and remain relevant as roles and technologies change. Effective training is not just about transferring information but about enabling sustained performance and continuous development. Understanding the Purpose of Long-Term Training Training materials should be designed with long-term outcomes in mind, not just immediate skill acquisition. The purpose of long-term training is to help employees build durable kno...

Organizational change can be challenging, especially when it occurs on a large scale. Project managers are often at the forefront, tasked with ensuring that transitions proceed smoothly while minimizing disruption to daily operations. Successful change management requires careful planning, clear communication, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. By focusing on these areas, project managers can guide teams through change while maintaining productivity and morale. Understanding the Scope and Impact of Change Before implementing any significant change, it is critical for project managers to thoroughly understand the scope and potential impact on the organization. This involves evaluating which departments, processes, and employees will be affected, and identifying potential risks. By mapping out the landscape of change, project managers can anticipate challenges and develop strategies to address them. This preparation not only reduces unforeseen disruptions but also instills con...