In the pursuit of achieving sustainable objectives, Caritas India recognizes the pivotal role that institutional strengthening plays in ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of any organization. The ever-changing landscape demands continuous reflection on intervention approaches, evaluating whether they align with organizational goals and mission. Caritas India has embarked on a transformative journey with Regional Forums since 2018, instigating perspective building and emphasizing a strategic approach to development.

In 2022, a significant milestone was achieved as Caritas India, in collaboration with CRS, institutionalized safeguarding components within its structure and system through the SaFE program. Building upon this foundation, the current phase is dedicated to mainstreaming the Regional Strategy Plan (RSP) and Key Strategy Pillars (KSP) integration, along with the implementation of Safeguarding 1-7 Standards at the Diocesan Social Service Society (DSSS) level.

The orientation for this crucial phase commenced with the insightful remarks of Fr. (Dr.) Jolly Puthenpura, Assistant Executive Director of Caritas India. He underscored the importance of self-reliance at the DSSS level and urged participants to consider alternative plans, emphasizing the necessity of sustaining ourselves for the future. Recognizing Diakonia as the social ministry of the church, Fr. Jolly stressed the significance of having mandatory organizational policies, particularly the Diocesan Strategy Plan and Safeguarding policy, at both the Regional Forum and DSSS levels.

Ms. Babita Pinto, Head of Programs at Caritas India, provided valuable insights into key verticals that warrant emphasis during this phase. These include Strategy, Compliances, Uniqueness and Strength, Partnership and Alliances, and Leadership. Ms. Pinto encouraged participants to challenge themselves as representatives of the church and minorities in India, recognizing the fragility of our environment.

Mr. Ananth Kaliyaperumal of CRS shed light on the institutional perspectives regarding policy requirements. Stressing the importance of compliance with safeguarding procedures and policies, he emphasized that this adherence is crucial for organizational survival. He also advocated for the establishment of complaint committees within organizations.

The two-day orientation on November 15th and 16th, 2023, was dedicated to the rollout process of the RSP initiated by the Regional Forum. This included sharing successful models to enhance resource mobilization, micro-enterprises, engagement with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and campaigns initiated to build alliances and networks. Additionally, the orientation focused on the rollout of Safeguarding at the DSSS level. Group exercises during the event recommended an ownership approach, involving Diocesan participation, and highlighted the need for mid-term/end evaluations.

A comprehensive blueprint and learning documents were developed based on the RSP and KSP rollout presentations, incorporating suggestions in the context of the current scenario. The process revealed gaps and challenges, with proposed solutions shared with Caritas India and CRS.

Fr. Paul Moonjely, Executive Director of Caritas India, emphasized the critical need for well-established policies and their integration into the organizational system. He encouraged every region to incorporate Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) mechanisms for both organizational and regional development. Fr. Moonjely expressed gratitude to the Regional Forum directors for their dedication to impactful work in their respective regions.

As Caritas India continues its humble journey towards institutional strengthening, the commitment to sustainable development remains unwavering. The collaborative efforts with Regional Forums exemplify a compassionate and strategic approach to addressing the evolving needs of communities, ensuring that the mission of Caritas India extends beyond immediate relief to a sustainable and enduring impact on the lives of those we serve.