Introducing Our Guidebook: Building Resilient NGOs

Justyna Turek

January 4, 2024

For the last 3 months our team at Holis School has been hard at work crafting a powerful resource "Organisational Resilience for NGOs" guidebook. This guidebook isn’t just another document—it's a practical roadmap designed to help NGOs thrive and adapt in the face of challenges.

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Resilience is the superhero power every NGO needs. It's that ability to handle the unexpected, pivot when necessary, and keep moving forward to achieve your mission. Our guidebook is your trusty sidekick, packed with insights, tips, and real stories to boost that resilience. Navigating the world of NGOs isn’t always smooth sailing, and we get that. That's why this guidebook is tailored specifically for you —addressing the challenges you face head-on and providing valuable insights to keep you pushing forward. As John Thackara said in our foreword.

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"Resilience, in this book, is less about tools and platforms, and more about nurturing trust among people, and strengthening mutual support networks. Built up by collaboration and support over time. Resilience and wellbeing, in the pages that follow, are properties of a social and ecological context in which people, places and living systems are interconnected"

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In essence, our "Organisational Resilience for NGOs" guidebook is our salute to all the incredible warriors in the NGO world. In each section of the guidebook, we've included a special dedicated segment called "What Does This Mean for Me?".

It's tailored just for you—whether you're an activist, a planner, a volunteer, or the brains behind an NGO. This section offers practical, hands-on insights relevant to your specific role.

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Why NGOs?

How many times did you hear “Put on your oxygen mask before assisting others” before taking off the plane? Have you ever reflect how important is it? In the ever-evolving landscape of NGOs and non-profit organizations worldwide, the need for resilience and adaptability has never been more pronounced. These organizations are the backbone of social change, their tireless efforts dedicated to making the world a better place. However, they often face a set of common challenges and daily struggles that require careful consideration. It is a right time, especially after pandemic, to regain the strength withing the NGOs.

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We didn’t create this guidebook alone. It’s the result of a collaborative effort, bringing together experts, passionate individuals like you, and those deeply involved in making a positive impact. At Holis School 2023 with a topic "Building the Resilience of NGO", a community dedicated to driving positive change, we've pooled our experiences and knowledge to create something special.

Inside this guidebook, you won't find complex theories or fancy jargon. It's a down-to-earth toolkit for activists, planners, volunteers, or anyone involved in NGOs.

Led by our editor in chef Justyna Turek and including contributions like John Thackara, Maxim Dedushkov, Diego Alatorre Guzmán, Álvaro Valls Boix, Diana Takacsova, and more, this guidebook is as user-friendly as it gets. Our squad of reviewers—Michala Lipkova, Roland Harwood, and Šárka Benešová—ensured that this guidebook is not just informative but also practical. Thank you for support Paul Lequay, Henryk Stawicki, Archie MS and Stanislav Daniel. Guidebook it’s packed with tried-and-tested methods and fresh ideas that are ready to be put into action.

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Curious to unlock your NGO's superpowers? Keep an eye out! This guidebook is about to become your go-to companion on your journey to making a genuine and long-lasting impact.

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So, fellow change-makers, reflect on your experiences and stay tuned. Let's continue this conversation and work together towards building stronger, more resilient NGOs. Join us in exploring the strategies and insights shared in our guidebook. Together, let's shape a brighter future for the causes we deeply care about.

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We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the many supporters, participants, experts, facilitators, junior facilitators, partners, and the entire community who played an integral role in bringing this guidebook to life.

Financial Support: We are deeply appreciative of the financial support provided by the Visegrad Fund and Porticus, without which this project would not have been possible.

Valued Partners: Our gratitude extends to our esteemed partners from the V4 countries, including:

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