Voluntary Impact Northamptonshire held the first CEO Networking Event on the 26^{th of} September 2024, in partnership with the Doddridge Centre who provided a venue and refreshments. These networking sessions are brought under the new Infrastructure contract with West Northamptonshire Council, which is itself a collective approach driven under the umbrella of SAWN (Social Action West Northamptonshire) which includes VIN, South Northants Volunteer Bureau (SNVB) and Daventry Volunteers. 18 CEO’s or Principal Decision Makers attended and were treated with two guest speakers in the shape of Shah Alhabib and Emilie Vavasour.

 

Shah gave a superb presentation on Artificial Intelligence and what it could mean for the VCSE. We all know how labour intensive some of work is, and AI may be a route to simplifying some of that. It was agreed that those in attendance would look and examine some of the many free options or packages which exist in the marketplace, with a view to formalising an approach at the next session (February or March 2025).

 

Emilie Vavasour (LAP Lead) gave an insightful presentation on the current Local Area Partnership priorities and how VCSE organisations can involve themselves. The priorities can be seen here

 

VIN is acutely aware that the role of CEO can be a lonely and unforgiving space. As a result,  we will build in time to discuss issues, concerns, challenges, or a better way of working at the next session.

 

If existing delegates want a particular subject discussed or a guest speaker invited please contact russell.rolph@voluntaryimpact.org.uk

 

If you wish to prebook your space in advance (a date will be circulated in due course) please contact Sophie.negus@voluntaryimpact.org.uk

 

VIN would like to thank those who took time from their busy schedule to attend and would also like to thank the Doddridge for their efforts on our collective behalf.