The strength of bilateral exchanges within the International Federation
For several years now, the International Federation of Petits Frères des Pauvres has been developing a program of bilateral exchanges between its members. The aim is simple: to share experiences, compare local realities and enrich each other’s practices. These exchanges are guided by common values and respond to the development needs of our members. Despite our very different realities, we share a common mission: to combat the social isolation and precariousness of the elderly.
Bilateral exchanges involve organizing a meeting between two members of the International Federation. The meeting must meet a specific need identified by the association making the request. After the meeting, a follow-up is established to determine whether it was relevant and meet the expectations of both associations.
The exchange program is based on a fundamental principle: the aim is not to transpose a model, but to learn from each other. Each member operates in a specific cultural, economic, historical and social context. The richness of these encounters lies in the diversity of viewpoints and practices. What’s more, as all members are at different levels of development and structuring, each one gathers relevant information and advice, depending on their current situation.
Romanian delegation visits France
It was in this spirit that the Romanian delegation from Asociația Niciodată Singur – Prietenii Vârstnicilor (a member association of the International Federation) visited France last week, warmly welcomed by the local teams of Les Petits Frères des Pauvres in Lyon.
The delegation was made up of Valentin, CEO of the association, Bianca, Programs Director, and several team members from all over the country. The objective of this immersion was clear: to gather as much information as possible to help them draw up their future development plan.
All day, they met with employees and volunteers. These exchanges enabled them to better understand the structure, workings and tools of Les Petits Frères des Pauvres.
Bianca sums up the experience this way:
“It was a great opportunity for the whole team to exchange ideas. This immersion in the Petits Frères des Pauvres gave us a lot of ideas to adapt. It’s clearly a step forward for our association.
A diversity of viewpoints to enrich practices
The many exchanges enabled us to tackle crucial issues such as volunteer mobilization, collaborative working methods and governance. This particularly busy day provided a global view of the French association. The Romanian team was able to ask all their questions, and volunteers and employees were delighted to collaborate and help in their own way.
Valentin particularly appreciated this plurality of viewpoints:
“I learned a lot about the development and current workings of the Petits Frères des Pauvres. The context and historical details provided by the employees are essential to understanding the organization. This gives me the overview I need to create a coherent strategic development plan.
He goes on to talk about the exchange with volunteers from the Fraternité régionale Auvergne Rhône-Alpes: “Understanding the reality on the ground was the main reason we came. I’m very happy to have been able to meet local teams of volunteers and discuss the reality of their commitment, and not just an ideal vision. It’s important to know that we’re facing the same challenges”.
Moments of reflection, but also surprises
Faced with the differences in structure and operation, the debates were lively. Bianca was surprised by several aspects. She shares:
“I was surprised by the structure of the teams and the system that focuses on the evolution and empowerment of volunteers. It was also surprising to see that the same rules, principles and values are conveyed at every level, both macro and micro”.
Mutual enrichment to build the future
The meeting not only benefited the Romanian team, but it was also a source of enrichment for the French teams. These events are at the heart of the mission of the International Federation. We are convinced that, faced with the global challenge of an ageing population, collective intelligence and solidarity will be key.
This bilateral exchange is a perfect illustration of the International Federation’s ambition: to create a dynamic of solidarity on a global scale, where each organization makes its own contribution to the fight against the isolation of the elderly.
As Bianca points out:
“It’s reassuring and encouraging to know that we have this kind of support by being part of the International Federation.”
