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| Children from Taganka Children's Fund, one of the projects we fund. |
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The organisation that was to become Action for Russia’s Children (ARC) was first set up in 1991 by a group of expatriates based in Moscow. Disenchanted with the lack of possibilities for change within the state orphanage system, these volunteers started to make contact with Russian non-governmental organisations (NGOs) who were providing child-centred care in a community and family-orientated environment. From basic material donations, to advice with fundraising and assistance with grant applications, ARC has provided a first link between these NGOs and potential sponsors.
ARC was registered as a UK charity in 1997 and the projects that it supports today are dynamic and effective examples of charitable care for children. Many projects supported by ARC have moved into new or expanded premises and have grown considerably in scope. Some have been recognised as models of good practice and are being replicated in other parts of Russia.
In recognition of what ARC has achieved, Sarah Philps, one of the original founding members of ARC was awarded an MBE by HM the Queen in the 1999 New Year’s Honours List. Sarah remains involved with the charity and is currently a Patron for Action for Russia's Children.
The way ARC works
Structure and Management
ARC is run by a management committee in Moscow and has a UK based Company Secretary. Each ARC supported project has a coordinator, who keeps in close and regular contact with the project and builds a relationship with them. Other volunteers offer specialist knowledge, time, and energy to projects. Management committee meetings are held regularly.
Aims and Objective
Although there is a constant turnover of volunteers, ARC has consistent aims and working principles. ARC is always adjusting to reflect the current and long-term needs of the disadvantaged in Moscow. We focus on what we believe are centres of excellence and support their endeavours. We also encourage them to share their experiences and replicate their activities nationally and internationally.
Working Practices
ARC has a four-step process for considering whether to support a new project:
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A visit to the project by ARC Management Committee representatives.
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Consideration by the full Management Committee as to whether and how ARC can help this project.
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Appointment of an ARC project coordinator, and commencement of a monitoring period.
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Discussion by the full Management Committee at the end of the initial monitoring period. If satisfactory, the project is then listed as an ‘ARC-supported project’ in ARC’s literature, and is eligible to apply for funding from ARC. There is no guarantee that funding will be available or granted.
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