The Centre on Philanthropy announced yesterday that it will be offering courses to help teach local charities how to be more effective.

Beginning next week, the Centre will offer various one-day courses designed to teach non-profit workers how to better deal with issues such as governance, fund-raising, financial management, capacity building and performance improvement.

Manager of the education programme Danielle Riviere said: "Anyone that works with a non-profit, whether as a volunteer, board member or as staff, would benefit from these courses.

"There are several small charities that have passion and committed teams, who unfortunately do not have the skills required to take their much needed programmes to the next level."

Ms. Riviere said that the programme has been in the works for a year now, and will feature several international instructors.

"One of the main functions of the Centre is to advance the skills, knowledge and performance of Bermuda's non-profit sector," she said. "We have created a programme that will allow participants to progress through different skill levels, ensuring that there is a continuation of learning."

The first course, 'How to be an Effective Board Member,' will be held on October 12, and will be taught by local non-profit management consultant Elizabeth Walker-Sobhani.

The workshops will continue until next June, and the costs start at $75.