CBOs

CBOs, or community-based organizations, are non-profit groups rooted in a locality that organize to address social, economic, or health-related needs identified by residents. They are typically membership-based and volunteer-driven, with governance by a board drawn from the community they serve. CBOs emphasize local participation, empowerment, and accountability in service design and delivery.

Common activities include direct service delivery such as child care, elder support, health promotion, and education programs; community development projects; capacity-building for residents; advocacy on local issues; and data collection or monitoring to inform planning. In disaster or crisis contexts, CBOs may coordinate relief, mobilize volunteers, and provide culturally appropriate support.

Funding for CBOs comes from a mix of sources, including government grants or contracts, private donations, foundations, and fees for services where appropriate. They often operate under legal forms suitable for non-profit status and maintain reporting and governance practices to ensure transparency and accountability.

CBOs interact with a range of actors, including municipal authorities, health and social service agencies, NGOs, and international organizations. They can serve as implementers of programs at the local level, partners in planning, or representatives of community voices in policy discussions. In some contexts, the term CBO is used interchangeably with civil society organizations, though CBOs typically denote locality-based, grassroots groups.

Challenges include sustaining funding, ensuring governance capacity, avoiding mission drift, promoting inclusivity and representation of diverse community members, navigating regulatory requirements, and balancing autonomy with accountability to stakeholders.