Liberia YMCA CEO, Mrs. Vonyee N. Kolison

Liberia YMCA National General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Vonyee Newton Kolison has emphasized that sustainability is essential for partner organizations of the Civil Peace Service (CPS) Network, especially at a time when many organizations are experiencing reductions in donor support and changing funding priorities.

Speaking during the opening of a two-day training on Capacity Building on Resource Mobilization for CPS partners, Mrs. Kolison described the initiative as a timely and strategic effort aimed at

preparing partner organizations to effectively respond to challenges associated with cuts or declines in donor funding. She noted that the training serves as a critical step toward strengthening the resilience and long-term viability of CPS partner organizations.

According to Mrs. Kolison, the global donor landscape continues to evolve, with funding often redirected to countries, programs, or emergencies considered urgent by donor institutions. As a result, organizations that rely heavily on external support must begin to rethink their operational strategies and focus more on sustainability and self-reliance.

“When priorities are shifted, funding goes to a country or program with urgency and priority to the donor,” Mrs. Kolison stated. “Given the priorities of donors, organizations receiving support from donor institutions will definitely experience cuts in their funding.”

She stressed that organizations must now position themselves to survive and remain impactful even during periods of financial uncertainty. Mrs. Kolison added that sustainability is no longer optional but a necessity for organizations seeking to continue serving their communities effectively.

Mrs. Kolison further hailed the CPS Organizational Sustainability Training as a strategic intervention that will help participating organizations better understand the broader concept of sustainability, including resource mobilization, institutional strengthening, accountability, and long-term planning.

She expressed optimism that the training will equip CPS partner organizations with the knowledge and practical tools needed to adapt to changing realities in the donor community, while also encouraging them to explore innovative ways to sustain their programs and operations.

The Liberia YMCA boss also commended the Civil Peace Service Network for taking proactive steps to prepare its partner organizations for the future, noting that such initiatives are important in ensuring that institutions remain relevant, effective, and capable of continuing their peacebuilding and community development efforts despite funding challenges.

Written by: Emmanuel S. King, Jr