Capacity Building: What is it? Why is it important?March 2, 2009 |
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 Capacity building is a hot topic in the nonprofit world. But what exactly is it? The answers can vary. This week First 5 LA is hosting a special edition of the Monday Morning Report to describe our approach to capacity building, and how this relates to our efforts to sustain positive, long-term change for children 0-5 in L.A. County. Capacity building at First 5 LA is based on the recognition of two truths. The first is that real and widespread change does not happen overnight, and the second is that even long-term grants don't last forever. Because of this, First 5 LA has created the Grantee Technical Assistance Institute focusing on helping grantees develop solid organizational infrastructure to support efforts that sustain and improve impact. Why this approach and what does it mean? The approach is inspired by the book "Forces for Good: The Six Practices of High Impact Nonprofits" by Leslie Crutchfield and Heather McLeod Grant. The duo explored the characteristics of 12 American nonprofit organizations whose effectiveness and influence was achieved through strong internal capacity. In distinctive ways, each organization worked with and through other organizations and individuals to create more impact than they could have ever achieved independently. One powerful definition of capacity building that serves as a touchstone for First 5 LA came from Ann Philbin, director of the Hammer Museum. She said it is "the process of developing and strengthening skills, instincts, processes, and resources that organizations and communities need to survive, adapt and thrive in a fast changing world." It should be noted that these efforts differ from 'direct services', i.e. case management, counseling, in-home visitation etc. which is commonly thought of as a core component of non-profit activity. Another definition comes from the California Wellness Foundation, which further defines capacity building as the development of an organization's core skills and capabilities, such as leadership, management, finance, fundraising, programs and evaluation. First 5 LA has joined a movement in the foundation community to support nonprofit organizations and their efforts to become more effective. We do this through the First 5 LA Grantee Technical Assistance Institute, a series of seminars, workshops and technical support. The next article describes in greater detail what those programs offer and who they are designed for. |
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