The Centre on Philanthropy is launching a host of new training programmes for charity staff and volunteers.

The programmes, which start next week, cover a range of issues including a fundraising boot camp, ways to generate income, and how to read financial statements.

The organisation’s programme manager, Karen Smith, led an extensive review and assessment of past workshops to ensure the new curriculum is “more relevant and innovative”, offering courses that will support the most immediate needs of the non-profit sector.

“The Centre on Philanthropy has listened to its membership and stakeholders,” Ms Smith said. “We have seen a 20 percent increase in demand for training and help desk services and we are working diligently to ensure the non-profit sector receives the support and skills they need to serve the community.

“Whether you are a Board Member, staff or volunteer at a non-profit organisation, the Centre on Philanthropy can assist in directing you to more sustainable solutions for your organisation.”

Ms Smith said that improvements to the programme will see “a broader selection of facilitators, more capacity building and governance training, boot camps in fundraising and more one-on-one assistance with a pool of trainers available for implementation support, where needed”. Certification and education credits will also be offered as they become available.

“We have also engaged a pool of trainers and experts who will be made available to non-profits to assist in complying with the new Charities Act,” she said.

The centre’s Executive Director, Elaine Butterfield, added: “In addition, the Centre on Philanthropy will continue its Quarterly Member Forums where speakers are invited to present on pressing third sector issues. These meetings are free for members of The Centre on Philanthropy and go a long way in assisting and availing understanding of issues and the actions that can be taken as a collaborative group, ensuring best possible outcomes and solutions.”

Workshops, which start on September 30 and run through June, 2015 will be offered as Lunch and Learns, webinars, forums, and half and full-day classes.