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Community Networks • March 6, 2025
Hot Takes with Patrick!
This month, we’re focusing on financial health—cash flow, grants, audits, and long-term stability. But this isn’t just a checklist—it’s an opportunity to tap into the collective wisdom of our community!
Networking within this sector is powerful. When organisations connect, everyone benefits. Whether you’re a part of a large organisation with complex finances or a smaller group just finding your feet, every Member brings valuable insight. You might pick up a clever budgeting tip that’s been a game-changer for someone else or discover a fresh approach to securing grants.
At CNA we’re working to strengthen these connections even more throughout 2025. Collaboration creates space to openly share experiences. Our first webinar (keep an eye on your inboxes) will bring these ideas into the kōrero—because sometimes the best solution is just a conversation away.
By connecting and sharing we reinforce that sense of community and support. The path to financial stability can feel overwhelming but knowing others have faced similar hurdles—and overcome them—can be a huge confidence boost. Feedback from our last Hui said it best:
"Sometimes, it’s just good to know I’m not the only one in this situation."
Collaboration isn’t just about learning—it’s about thriving. When we share knowledge and support each other, we create an environment where everyone can succeed. So, don’t be shy! Start a conversation with a fellow Member—our Neighbourly Natters (more on this soon!) will help you connect with others in your area. Together, we can all become more resilient, financially stable, and prepared for the future.
We'd Love to Hear from You!
💡 What strategies have you found most effective for managing cash flow or securing grants in these challenging times? Share your tips with the community and let's learn from each other.
📉 Have you faced any specific financial challenges recently that you’d like to discuss? Your experiences could spark helpful conversations with others in similar situations.
💬 How can CNA support you further in strengthening your financial health? Let us know what resources or tools would be most beneficial to your organisation.
🤝 What’s your go-to method for collaborating with others in your community? Let’s talk about how we can increase our collective efforts and support one another.
🎓 Have you attended any training or networking events recently that made a difference? Share what you learned with the community—it could be the key to someone else’s success!
Ngā mihi,
Patrick Davies, Engagement Officer
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CNA Chair Holly Snape reflects on 1 Sector, 6 Parties, the first 2026 election-focused political panel created specifically for Aotearoa’s community and voluntary sector, highlighting key discussions, sector representation, and why community voices must be part of the election conversation.
Kia ora koutou, Gather your team, pour a drink, and get ready for something a little different. This isn’t your average political panel. It’s a chance for Aotearoa’s community sector to tune in together, listen to the proposed direction, share ideas, and maybe even get a bit fired up about the future. Hosted by Community Networks Aotearoa, ‘1 Sector, 6 Parties Respond’ this live-streamed event brings politicians from across the spectrum into one (virtual) room to talk candidly about the realities facing charities, iwi organisations, and Not-for-Profits. With the next election on the horizon, what they say, and how they say it, matters. And the best part? You don’t have to watch it alone. Turn it into a mini event of your own. Set up a screen in the office, book out the community hall, or invite a few colleagues over. With drinks, nibbles, and ‘hellos’ kicking off from 4:30pm and the panel starting at 5:00pm, it’s perfectly timed to roll straight from work into something social and energising. Guided by political reporter Jehan Casinader, expect a lively, honest kōrero that goes beyond the usual talking points. He’s got the gumption, you bring the cynicism. As a CNA member it’s a great way to bring your organisation together to reconnect, network, and kōhumuhumu. It’s also a great way to remind your people why you’re our member and what they get from your membership with us. We’re always looking for great ways to help you provide excellent and meaningful support. Watching together adds a whole new layer. You’ll catch things you might miss on your own, spark conversations in the moment, and build a shared understanding of what’s ahead. It’s part watch party, part strategy session, with a side of healthy debate. Want to make it count? Try this: Make it a watch party: Bring shared kai (remember those dietary peeps too!), and a relaxed but curious vibe—think less lecture, more shared experience. Get ready to kōrero: Bring a pen and paper and make moments to react, question, or celebrate what you’re hearing. Capture the “aha” moments: Jot down ideas or quotes that hit home for your team; and what you might be able to put in your newsletter. Turn talk into action: After the stream, ask “So what do we do with this?” and pick one or two next steps. This is your chance to connect, reflect, and maybe even challenge what you think you know. So don’t just tune in, show up, together, and be part of the conversation shaping the road ahead. The election is closer than you think! Ngā mihi, Patrick Davies, Engagement Officer
Burning for a Cause: A Totally Scientific Analysis of the NZ Not-for-Profit Sector’s Relationship with Increasingly Stupid Levels of Spice
