Hi Dr. Blackwell,
In my ongoing studying of collective impact and systems change, I've found that an absolutely necessary key to collaboration is the relational work. The trust building and constant communication with others, especially those outside of our own organizations and sectors, is something I have to work on every day in my role. The relational piece doesn't always feel "productive" in the traditional sense, but it is absolutely the work that needs to happen. One of the things I have to remind myself of comes from Paul Schmitz who always says, "just pick up the phone and call people." It can be that simple and that difficult all in one.
I really see this in the OneHealth setting. From working with government agencies, academic institutions, nonprofits, indigenous and lived experience communities, these all take a lot of relational work that often times means approaching them without the intent of getting something done. Usually we start by just actively listening, being vulnerable and committing to an open mind, beyond what we might have funding for.
Collaboration often also reaches beyond cross-sectional partnerships and is something reflected internally. Some of my current work is understanding what our boards need to commit to when our collaborative goal is systems change. The dynamic leadership required for this work can't just live with staff involved with collectives or committees, but needs to be a priority throughout organizations.
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Vanessa Hidden
Co-Sheltering Collaborative Administrator
My Dog Is My Home
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Original Message:
Sent: 08-29-2024 07:37 AM
From: Michael Blackwell
Subject: Building a One Health Network: How Can We Strengthen Collaboration Across Sectors?
Collaboration is key if we are to bring and expand our One Health community, including those of a public health, social work, veterinary care, or related background. How do we then make the collaborations powerful? I'll be happy to hear all your thoughts and experiences. What strategies have worked for you in bringing together these far-reaching sectors? How do we break down silos and ensure each sector's unique strength is maximized for the benefit of bonded families? Join us as we learn from successes, innovation, and, yes, challenges you've overcome in your work. Let's take some of these hard-won lessons and forge together better and more connected partnerships, ones that will benefit all families.
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Michael J Blackwell, DVM, MPH, FNAP
Assistant Surgeon General, USPHS (Ret.)
Director, Program for Pet Health Equity
Center for Behavioral Health Research
https://pphe.utk.edu
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