Mentoring Programme
Mentoring is at the very heart of the support that iNspire provides. The model is designed to provide both peer support and experienced leadership skills to each charitable organisation in the iNspire portfolio.
Each organisation is assigned to a group which consists of no more than 5 non-competing organisations. These groups are called “Hubs” and each is headed by an exceptional Leader from the world of business. The Leaders provide mentoring, coaching and support and have been selected on the basis of their business successes and considerable leadership skills. Each Leader also brings with them their exceptional network of contacts.
Each Hub meets on a monthly basis and the group meetings provide those involved with both peer support from other organisations experiencing the same challenges as well as expert guidance and support from the Leader. The group sessions are an opportunity to share experiences and issues and learn from those who have been there and done it. These meetings are supplemented by one-to-one sessions where the Leaders work with the CEO or principal of each organisation giving support and guidance for the challenges and decisions they face on a day-to-day basis and also help develop strategies to ensure success in the future.
In addition to acting as a sounding board, the Leaders also assess whether there is a need for specific skills or advice which could be provided by the iNspire network of Supporters.
iNspire’s Leaders have assisted third sector organisations in many ways, including:
- developing commercial and individual fundraising strategies;
- solving strategic financial challenges;
- developing brand, marketing and communications strategies;
- developing partnerships; and
- assisting with complex operational issues.
The Leaders also meet as a group every few months to share their experiences and spread their know-how and successes throughout the Hubs.