COMMUNITY
SOLUTIONS LAB
A Special Incubator for Community-based Programs
FLO’s Community Solutions Lab responds to local needs by developing programs and movements within communities that utilize the expertise, resources & skills of the people already living there.
How It Works:
01
Problem ID
A community self-identifies a challenge where no existing organization, initiative or intervention exists. FLO Bahamas determines if the issue can be addressed through a volunteer-oriented, community-based program.
02
Program Pilot Development
FLO Bahamas works with local people and organizations (community organizing) to develop a pilot program that uses the resources & skills within the community, and executes the program for a determined amount of time.
03
Transition
FLO completes the pilot community program and transitions it into the hands of a local group, organization or institution to continue and, where possible, offers longterm advice & support on the intervention.
The Community Solutions Lab is a special program ran by FLO on a need-basis where the organization has the capacity to support initiatives that FLO’s National Volunteer Network cannot immediately serve.
Coming Soon:
Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) Pilot Program
Eleuthera, Bahamas
Across Eleuthera, school leaders & parents have identified a need for more enriching and diverse learning opportunities that complement classroom education. Students need opportunities to develop practical, technical, and vocational skills through hands-on experiences, while meaningfully connecting with the world around them.
Being an island on-the-rise, Eleuthera is rich with knowledgeable people, skilled professionals, organizations & businesses that can serve as valuable resources and spaces for student learning. This Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELO) Pilot Program will connect these existing community assets with schools, transforming local knowledge, skills, and resources into meaningful educational experiences for young people while giving them the opportunity to serve the community. See the concept note below:
Past Community-based Programs
While FLO’s first Community Solutions Lab project is forthcoming, we have a history with running community-based programs that have met communities needs, and inspired the creation of the CSL.
Impact Club
2017-2021 | Nassau, Grand Bahama, Long Island, Bahamas
Impact Club introduced students across 10 schools in New Providence, Long Island, and Grand Bahama to the power of service learning. Through weekly sessions, students identified community needs, planned service projects, developed budgets, and worked together on initiatives ranging from environmental cleanups to kindness projects.
The program also included weekend performing arts activities through the Service in Progress (SIP) program, helping students build confidence, teamwork, and leadership through action.
Navigators Program – Elizabeth Estates Children’s Home
2013-2016 | Nassau, Bahamas
The Navigators Program combined mentorship and support with environmental education and outdoor learning. In partnership with the Bahamas National Trust, young people were introduced to marine science, conservation, outdoor skills, and potential career pathways connected to the natural environment. The program created opportunities for participants to explore new interests, develop practical knowledge, and build relationships with mentors who encouraged their growth.
Academic Support Program – Bahamas Children’s Emergency Hostel
2013-2016 | Nassau, Bahamas
At the Bahamas Children’s Emergency Hostel, FLO supported young people through academic assistance, literacy development, homework support, and social and educational activities. The program also incorporated Vacation Bible School and opportunities for spiritual and character development. Through consistent engagement and mentorship, volunteers helped create a supportive environment where children could learn, build confidence, and experience the value of community care.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN THE CSL
If you have interest in receiving support on the development of a community-based, community-powered program in your community, please reach out to the office of our National Director at steffon@flobahamas.org with the details of your program of interest.