By Andy Harrington, Canadian Foodgrains Bank

It’s a competitive world out there and sadly that can impact the way that non-profits view each other. Whether it’s the battle for donors, government funding or public awareness, the temptation is to try to get ahead of the pack.

Kentro membership provides a better alternative. Instead of competition, it promotes collaboration, something that is a core part of the identity of Canadian Foodgrains Bank. Our members, many of whom are also members of Kentro, regularly share financial resources to support each other’s projects in places that are difficult to work in such as Afghanistan, the DRC and elsewhere.

We’ve appreciated the value of sharing in Kentro as well. We’ve cooperated with other members such as Food for the Hungry in training supporters to do advocacy work around international development issues. We’ve also worked alongside World Vision, Samaritans Purse and others to advocate for the passing of Bill C41, allowing Canadian humanitarian aid to flow to those in such great need in Afghanistan, and to see amendments to the income tax act passed that make it easier for Canadian charities to operate abroad.

These are just some of the significant efforts that Kentro members have worked together on to see meaningful change happen. Our combined voice is powerful and is listened to. Collaboration is better than competition every time!

Photo: An advocacy training event with Laura Solberg, Food for the Hungry, Canadian Foodgrains Bank and HOPE International.