Welcome to the website of the Office for the Community and Voluntary Sector (OCVS).
We raise the profile of the community and voluntary sector within government via a range of activities.
The collaborative approach to our work is driven by the Statement of Government Intentions for an Improved Community-Government Relationship, which sets out a vision and principles to help build a vibrant community and voluntary sector working in partnership with government to benefit society. Expectations of public servants are made explicit in six government commitments in the document.
This site provides you with information about the OCVS and our work to implement the Statement and build knowledge about the community and voluntary sector.
» Learn more about the COMMUNITY-GOVERNMENT FORUM – 11 NOVEMBER
Cabinet paper and minutes show Government commitment to building strong community relationships
The Cabinet paper Government Commitment to Building Strong Community Relationships proposed a programme of actions to strengthen government engagement with citizens and communities. The programme of action is in response to the Good Intentions report by the Association of Non-Governmental Organisations of Aotearoa (ANGOA) and the From Talk to Action report by the Building Better Government Engagement reference group.
Cabinet agreed that a national Community-Government Forum in November 2009 will discuss development of a Relationship Agreement to replace the 2001 Statement of Government Intentions for an Improved Community-Government Relationship. A number of other actions were agreed and noted.
» Read the Cabinet paper and Minute - released 7 Sept 2009
» See more about plans for the Community-Government Forum on 11 Nov 2009.
Actions in the Cabinet paper will form part of the work programme of the OCVS, which already includes key projects to address challenging issues:
1. Building better government engagement
We’re working to improve government engagement with community and voluntary organisations and with citizens in policy and service development processes.
2. Improving government funding practice
This project will improve government’s funding and accountability arrangements with community and voluntary organisations.
3. Promoting generosity - encouraging all forms of giving
With Philanthropy NZ and Volunteering NZ, we’re spearheading the Promoting Generosity project to explore ways to inspire individuals and businesses to give time, money or in-kind donations.
Communities and the economic downturn - coping in the recession:
» Tips to improve productivity
» Practical resources and helpful links for working differently.