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.
------------------------------
Vanessa Hidden
Co-Sheltering Collaborative Administrator
My Dog Is My Home
------------------------------