Need Help Making 1+1 = 6?
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
Share
Kia ora koutou, One of the greatest strengths of our sector is our willingness to come together, share knowledge, and lift each other up. Here at good ol’ CNA, we know from experience that strong relationships with our members help us grow and strengthen our own work. And we see our members doing the same with the networks and communities they support. We’re a network that builds capacity by engaging deeply with you—our members. Whether through our 50th Anniversary Hui, regular updates, or one-on-one kōrero, your insights help shape our direction, inform our advocacy, and refine the resources we provide. It’s through this two-way relationship that we grow stronger as an organisation—and the same holds true for you and your own networks. It’s why we bring everyone together every two years—to connect face to face, share lessons, and learn from one another. When you hear how another group has tackled leadership development or improved their financial systems, you gain ideas and inspiration to take home. And when you share your own success, you spark growth in others. From supporting better governance through our Tick for Governance Course (over 900 satisfied customers!) and strategic planning, to helping organisations improve fundraising, engaging with Banks, Select Committees, and collaboration—we all grow by reaching out and working together. CNA does this with our members, and our members do it with theirs. The ripple effect is powerful. Your network is so much more than an email list—it’s a community of experience, support, and strength. Let’s keep learning, building, and growing together. Here are 4 action points for to better engage with their members: Yell it to the Rooftops: Through newsletters and social media make sure to highlight member successes, share relevant news, and provide opportunities for feedback. Add this positivity to inspire others Throw a Party: Even if it’s a cuppa and a bikkie, these allow members to keep relationships, share knowledge, and collaborate in real-time in an easy atmosphere – we don’t’ have to be on the treadmill all the time. We are allowed to enjoy ourselves. Pick up the phone: Sometimes it’s great to get a call that’s not about an issue. Just to say ‘hello’, ‘I’m thinking of you’, ‘what’s on your mind?’. These strengthen our relationships and keep us in mind of each other, which may mean reminding each other of what we can support each other in. Share the aroha: Create spaces (online or in-person) where members can exchange ideas and experiences. When someone learns a new strategy or approach, share it widely to inspire innovation and growth across your network. Why reinvent the wheel? Take that idea and adapt it to your own organisation. These are just a few ways to increase your capacity, to deepen relationships, and to help each other upwards. Forward, Stronger! Patrick Davies Membership Engagement Officer
After a year of research and advocacy, Community Networks Aotearoa shares how First Credit Union is stepping up to support better banking for non-profits—offering practical solutions to long-standing sector challenges.
Discover how AI can save time and streamline tasks in community and voluntary organisations. From writing emails to finding collaborators, learn practical ways AI can support your mahi—without losing your voice.
