International Labour Organization’s Post

"They believe they can just walk in and solve the problems if they have enough money, but that's not how you create change". The Guardian US When it comes to driving meaningful, lasting change, renowned social entrepreneur Kennedy Odede believes the solution lies in empowering local organizations over relying on external resources alone. Odede argues that international actors should resist the temptation to simply write checks and expect instant solutions. Instead, he asserts that they need to trust local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that are embedded within the communities they serve. These grassroots groups, Odede contends, possess the cultural context, relationships, and nuanced understanding required to catalyze sustainable, community-led transformation. By investing in and amplifying the voices of these local changemakers, international supporters can unlock their full potential to enact the kind of equitable change that truly resonates. Odede's perspective underscores the importance of shifting power and resources to community-based organizations, rather than imposing top-down, one-size-fits-all approaches. It's a philosophy rooted in the belief that local leaders are best positioned to identify and address the unique challenges facing their communities. By heeding Odede's call to "trust local NGOs with finance," international actors can move past quick fixes and support the grassroots efforts that lay the groundwork for systemic change. #EmpowerLocalChange #CommunityLeadTransformation #TrustLocalNGOs #GrassrootsInnovation #SustainableSolutions #EquitableChange #ShiftThePower #LocalLeadership #SystemicChange #CommunityDriven Kennedy Odede Joe Amisi, MCIArb The Guardian US SHOFCO @

In order to achieve inclusive industrialization, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable innovation, young people must lead the way in innovation, entrepreneurship, skill development, advocacy, and community participation.

International Day of Cooperatives 6 July Cooperatives Building a Better Future for All This year on July 6, cooperatives around the world will celebrate the International Day of Cooperatives with the theme "Cooperatives Building a Better Future for All". Cooperatives will have the opportunity to showcase their current and historical contributions to building a sustainable future, accelerating efforts to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) by 2030. The theme aligns well with the objectives of the upcoming UN Summit of the Future whose theme is "Multilateral solutions for a better tomorrow". For the 2024 #CoopsDay, cooperatives can showcase their high standards for inclusive and sustainable growth, and service as stewards for protecting the environment and fighting climate change. Through democratic governance and shared ownership, cooperatives set an example for peace and stability, bringing people from diverse backgrounds together on equal terms, and fostering understanding and respect. The 2023 UN Secretary-General Report on Cooperatives in Social Development acknowledged that cooperatives have a track record of promoting the economic and social development of all people including marginalized groups. This day will build the momentum towards the 2025 International Year of Cooperatives, which was declared by the UN last year.

People are not objects; People are subjects! Christian Social Innovation involves finding new opportunities in Social Entrepreneurship, Social Advocacy, and Social Services and Development. As Christian social innovators, we are to measure our effectiveness and collective impact of ministry beyond the walls of the church by asking: How is our dependability? Are we doing what we say we will do? How is our timeliness? Are we doing it when we say we will do it? How is our empathy? Are we helping with an eye to the needs of the community? What is our tangible evidence? Are we doing our service in ways that let communities know their needs have been met? Visit www.andrews.edu/go/LeadSI for detailed information on the MA Leadership in Social Innovation. 

In honor or Small Business Week, let's revisit RCAP's issue of "Rural Matters: Empowering Communities through Sustainable Economic Development," where two articles from our Great Lakes RCAP staff are featured. "On the Right. Get on Board." by Morgan Durbin and Deb Martin, covering Fostoria, OH's creative approach to economic development. "Teaching Entrepreneurship to Youth." by Brianna Dennis, sharing her experience working with youth and imparting upon them the importance of starting, growing, and maintaining a business in the 21st century. Read the full issue here: https://loom.ly/cKsIL-E

“TPW’s 2023 Global Journey to Brazil was a reminder of why looking outside of Europe and North America is so important, whether or not we are funding there,” shares TPW Global Director of Programmes Sam Underwood in Alliance magazine on the abundance of social change ideas and innovation our group of funders experienced there. Read his reflections on how that abundance, along with lessons on urgency, proximity, and root causes, offer important learnings applicable to funders across geographies and issue areas: https://lnkd.in/gi9RWQhQ

An exciting, challenging but worthwhile cause. Our work is far from done. We must continue to speak truth to power around decolonization and what that means for the majority world. #ShiftingThePower #AdvisoryBoard #Decolonization

#InfiniteErie was intentionally created with key community and economic development leaders who understand the need for collaboration — and the powerful role Erie's #InvestmentPlaybook plays to keep us focused, coordinated, and winning. #ReadMore from former Congressman Phil English as he details how #ErieCounty can level up through unity. #WePutPlansIntoAction #TranscendingPolitics #TransformingPlace #ErieActionTeam #EriePA https://ow.ly/yzqV50PIMlP

At Business for Social Responsiblity, the vision is for business "as a force for positive social change—a force that would preserve and restore natural resources, ensure human dignity and fairness, and operate transparently." As we continue our 12 days of giving, to honor our clients and members, today we support the vision and mission of BSR. Follow the link to learn about their areas of focus and how they work with organizations to enable their vision for positive social change. https://bit.ly/DaySeven23

Chief Ian Campbell, MBA of the Squamish Nation, also IPSS' event chair, provides three actionable ways to implement Indigenous reconciliation in daily life, particularly for those involved in business relationships. Firstly, he emphasizes the importance of partnering in Indigenous renewal through equity and shared ownership, fostering economic reconciliation. Secondly, he advocates for being connected by engaging with local organizations, working towards a brighter future, respecting diverse cultures, and fostering long-term relationships. Lastly, he highlights the significance of commitment, encouraging individuals to break down walls, engage in dialogue, and demonstrate a personal commitment to reconciliation for transformative impacts. Read more via the link below.