Women’s Bank had its yearly meeting for volunteers all over Finland in october, in Kuopio. Over 40 volunteers got together in the heart of the Savo region to be together, hear interesting talks, learn more about Women’s Bank projects and exchange experiences. Altogether 11 local groups were present, the largest group being that of hosting Kuopio.
‘It’s a good level of attendance, especially compared to the location. For many the journey to Kuopio was quite long.’ -states Women’s Bank coordinator Jaana Hirsikangas.
The two-day-event saw, among others, talks given Reeta Meriläinen, the chair of the steering group, and Sini Norta, chair of WB’s steering group. Participants could also find out about Women’s Bank’s new online resource pack, the results of the ‘Walk a Profession for a Woman’ event, and listen to accounts of Women’s Bank projects in DR Congo and Kosovo.
In small groups, we discussed how volunteers can use social media to their benefit, and brainstormed about when, what and why we should post or tweet.
Participants were happy with the content and arrangements of the meeting. The programe was specific and talks gave rise to vivid and constructive discussions.Especially accounts of trips to Kosovo and DR Congo were recieved with great interest, giving tangible evidence of Women’s Bank’s impact.
Feedback given by volunteers will be incorporated into the next meeting of the volunteer network: Women’s Bank Spring Meeting in Helsinki, 31.01.2015.
Text: Tiina Toivakka
This article was published in Women’s Bank Report 2/2014 (available in Finnish and Swedish).
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