By Rajaa Altalli | Executive Director
The Center for Civil Society and Democracy (CCSD) has officially launched the 2026–2029 cycle of our Civil Society Empowerment Program. We recently focused on restructuring our operations to meet the acute realities on the ground while building a resilient, long-term future for Syrian civil society organizations and leaders.
Pioneering a Local Co-Investment Model
In response to a shifting international funding landscape, CCSD co-developed an innovative financing model with our partners. Moving beyond traditional grants only, every partnership now emphasizes local community buy-in and co-investment. Some local organizations depend on a large number of youth volunteers, another organization has collaborated with various organizations to support implementations in different geographic areas, and one organization was able to get professional skills pro bono for its organization and others. Because the majority of our partners already leverage community contributions, this model formalizes local ownership, enhances financial self-reliance, and provides a security blanket so organizations can confidently secure additional outside investment regardless of the global funding environment.
Mapping Invisible Gaps
We redeveloped and deployed our comprehensive mapping protocol across two critical regions in Syria, securing initial engagement from 75 local organizations across different areas. While data collection is ongoing, early indicators reveal massive organizational turnover, funding scarcity, and severe friction as communities struggle to transition from emergency relief to stable development. We are actively tracking and noting systemic gaps in registration, economic infrastructure, community cohesion, and language barriers to better direct resources.
Protecting Frontline Workers
Humanitarian work in crisis zones takes an undeniable mental toll. In a vital collaboration with O7 Therapy, a certified Arabic-speaking mental health platform, CCSD continues to provide frontline civil society workers and first responders with tailored psychosocial support. Through individual therapy, group sessions, and targeted trauma and burnout webinars, we are ensuring those who care for Syria have a safe space to heal. One of the participants said: “I was able to use this service twice; it had been life-changing for me. It helped me overcome the stigma linked to psychological therapy and get the support I needed to face my obstacles.”
By conducting rigorous ground-level needs assessments and fortifying the mental well-being of local leaders, CCSD is safeguarding the future of civic spaces. Thank you to the GlobalGiving community for standing in solidarity with us during this three-year new program cycle.
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