Global Network Online Forum - Aug 2025
Dear all,
Thank you to everyone who joined the recent Global Network Online Forum. We had a rich time of learning on two key topics: economic strengthening of families and the new Know Your Network toolkit.
Economic strengthening: RENACSENIV’s “Un Gesto de Amor” programme
In the first of our two-part series on economic strengthening, we were delighted to hear from Maritza and Moraima from RENACSENIV in Venezuela about their “Un Gesto De Amor” programme, designed to help families build entrepreneurial skills and achieve greater independence amid Venezuela’s economic crisis. The programme combines training, practical business tools, and church support to create opportunities for home-based businesses, increase family stability, and reduce risks for children. Early results have been encouraging, with many families reporting increased income, stronger family relationships, and greater church involvement.
Breakout Room Highlights
During small group discussions, the following themes emerged:
Holistic benefits – you valued RENACSENIV’s integrated approach, noting that empowering families economically benefits both children and the wider church community. Economic stability is a vital prevention measure against risks such as trafficking.
Context-specific adaptation – Several of you noted that in your contexts, there is a need for a mindset shift in church-led programmes, moving from expectations of handouts to sustainable income generation. A specific example of contextualisation came from India, where Christian business leaders are linked with development workers to build business skills, while also recognising that not everyone is an entrepreneur, so job creation alongside entrepreneurship (i.e. entrepreneurs starting businesses which then also create employment opportunities for other) is important.
Tools – The CANVAS model and financial management training were highlighted as practical tools.
Practical first steps – Suggestions included:
gauging community interest in such a programme
assessing available resources
starting with savings education
taking small, proactive steps to create opportunities - even in situations of severe economic hardship, small changes can have a big impact
We are looking forward to part two in this series, where we hope to take a practical look at some of the tools that networks are using in their economic strengthening programmes. Please get in touch if you would like to share on this topic!
The new Know Your Network toolkit
Andrew then introduced the new Know Your Network toolkit, which replaces the Network Health Check. The new version has fewer questions, a more flexible, conversation-based approach, and a clearer focus on helping you to identify strengths and areas for growth, track your impact, and plan for sustainability.
You should have received a separate email from your coach with links to the Annual Survey and the Programme Tracking Log, as well as the PowerPoint that Andrew shared and a reminder of key information. Please do get in touch through your coach or via this link if you have any questions about the new tools or the process for completing them.
The link to the recording of this month’s forum is here. The passcode is zdmZ3p??
Thank you again for your participation and engagement in the Global Network Online Forum! We look forward to seeing you at the Global Network Prayer call on Wednesday 27th August, and at the next Forum on Wednesday 10th September, where our focus will be on the Quality Improvement System (QIS).