Policy Internships and Fellowships Program (PIAF) Program

The Policy Internships and Fellowships (PIAF) Pilot Project, under the Capacity Joint Table of the VSI, was launched in mid-May 2002. It is managed by the Centre for Voluntary Sector Research and Development (CVSRD) of the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, in partnership with the University of Victoria's Centre for Public Sector Studies (CPSS).

This unique project involves exchange initiatives, as it places voluntary sector employees in the federal government and vice versa. The fellowships focus on policy-relevant research that directly relates to the voluntary sector, which will provide specific knowledge, skills and expertise required by both sectors. It will also provide an opportunity for greater collaboration and information sharing between government, academics, and the voluntary sector. To view the summary report of the "Policy Internships and Fellowships - Bridging the Policy Dialogue Between Voluntary Organizations and the Federal Government", click here.

In 2002-2003 three public servants and six practitioners from the voluntary sector successfully undertook placements. To see their innovative policy work, please refer to the papers posted below.

Evaluating the consultation and collaboration strategies used with the Supporting Communities Partnership in Hamilton, Ontario Alan Bentley

Consultation, Collaboration, Change: The Path to Public and Voluntary Partnerships in Criminal Justice Policy - It's a Matter of Crime Helen Friel

Policy Capacity: Common Values, Strategic Approach and Managed Expectations Dorothee Gizenga

Working Towards Greater Public Involvement in Policy Development: Some Reflections Barbara Hill

National Voluntary Health Organizations: Stakeholders in Canada's Health Karen Hill

Just Visiting? More than meets the eye! Government and Community Working Together for Families Joanne Murray

Government - Non-Profit - Communities: Can they work together to advance the children's agenda? Janice Nelson

Support for a Ground-Up Approach to Public Policy Development Amy Seabrooke

Bringing Together Community and Government: A Unique Opportunity Cathy Wright

In 2003 / 2004, there are five Interns/Fellows participating from the Federal Government, as is listed below:

• Human Resources Development Canada going to Community Services Council (St. John's, NL)
• Canadian Heritage going to the Canadian Conference of the Arts (Ottawa, ON)
• Human Resources Development Canada going to Social Planning and Research Council of BC (Vancouver, BC)
• Health Canada going to BC Council for Families (Vancouver, BC)
• Human Resources Development Canada going to Voluntary Sector Forum (Ottawa, ON).

For more information about PIAF, please contact admin@cvsrd.org or
Sandra Jones at 613-520-7444

Important Notices