OUR CHALLENGES
long history has resulted in the evolution of strong values , beliefs , culture ,
CSF is an organisation in transition . During recent socially turbulent times knowledge in the community , skills , it and is facing networks a number . of major challenges : o An increase in the complexity of serious problems presented to CSF by clients and a lack of specialist services able to cope with this demand mean that more is expected of our volunteer community workers .
o In particular , increased instances of people presenting with mental health , homelessness , alcohol and other drug problems require additional care and ongoing supervision , support and training for volunteers . o o The retirement of long serving staff members and a reduction in funding for paid positions doesn ’ t come without its challenges . CSF will continue get the most from a highly skilled volunteer base but will continue to review its ability to provide services .
o Maintaining existing relationships with key partners such as Frankston City Council ( for staff , facility and in-kind support ) along with retaining Emergency Relief funding levels through the Federal Government ’ s Department of Social Services ( DSS ) which are essential to maintaining CSF services .
o Future complications or changes to key partnerships will impact on the quantity and quality of services and may adversely affect CSF ’ s capacity to attract and retain experienced and skilled staff . o o Retiring long-term volunteer board members possessing a wide range of valuable knowledge , skills and community connections will be difficult to replace . o o A shift in volunteering trends generally has resulted in community-minded people having less time available for volunteering with preferences for short-term and one-off volunteering rather than a regular commitment .
o Alternative sources of adequate sponsorship for community services , especially for administration , are limited and competition for government , business and philanthropic support is high . Despite employing specialist public relations and fund-raising personnel , even the big agencies are struggling to locate sources of financial support .