What do you do if you're struggling to build effective partnerships in community organizing?

Being transparent about your objectives and intention is essential. And starting conversations as early as possible is essential. Going to people with a plan that you want them to sign off on or join in with no say sets you both up for conflict and failure. And remember, needs are NOT strategies. Be flexible in your thinking about how needs get met. People tend to disagree on strategies, but if you bring the conversation back to NEEDS, over and over again, while remaining flexible and creative about how those needs could get met, you make room for innovation and collaboration. Keep an open mind! Be a TEAM.

My experience in community organizing has always been consistent engagement with colleagues and their organizations. First, you have common interests, such as education engagement, volunteer development, and collaboration development. The struggle in partnerships comes when you consistently try to win alone. Partnerships are strong when collaborations can gather their strengths together and develop each other strategically. My group leadership has a strong volunteer base, and my colleague organizing skills with parents can garner good support and other organizations that can bring financial strength and some with excellent field transportation. Now, we have gone from struggling to partnerships and winning the initiative in the community.

The partnership applies to our setting where we are remotely located. For a starter, we do not have even a simple communication accessibility. Also considering that we are an island nation with limited access and connectivity, getting in touch with potential partners will help us and assist us to maximize our potential.

If at all possible conduct a SWOT analysis through extensive discussions and dialogue with all members of the community using focus groups and individuals. Foster mutual understanding among all parties and where necessary expound on the pros and cons of situations under consideration. Ensure that you fully comprehend the situation at hand and respond by expounding on the pros and cons so each party understands and appreciate their respective roles in fostering a beneficial partnership for each and everyone.

Las dificultades no existen cuando tu relacionamiento con ellos es respetuoso y empático, cuando eres parte de ellos y no solo vives y te mimetizas si no que compartes sus tradiciones usos y costumbres. NO te pongas en posición de evaluador, experto mirando por el hombro a las personas, modula tu léxico con ellos, se parte de uno de ellos guardando objetividad en el análisis que debas haces.

Keep your door open, virtual or physical. Be clear that community members can come to you with asks, feedback, and suggestions. Be authentically open to having community members be a guide to your impact and engagement.

Building Trust is more than an aspect of community building and partnership. Building Trust is the foundation. That foundation should have it’s origins in events and actions that precede and inevitably produce partnerships in the community. The term “ honest broker” is used to describe an individual and an organization that is clear about what it or they represent and additionally speaks to the reputation that has been established. Building partnerships in communities is about welcoming the ibquiries that should come about working together on projects that produce a positive result for all involved.

Trust is built by listening, being honest and present. When community members know you're reliable, they'll start to trust you.

Building effective partnerships in community organizing requires adaptability, learning, and growth. If your current approach isn't generating desired results, be flexible, listen closely to community needs, and adjust your strategy accordingly. While it's natural to feel discouraged, remember that setbacks are often opportunities for growth. Setting clear goals and adapting your roadmap as needed can help you overcome challenges and build stronger partnerships.

Flexibility is an inherent condition for any community project, otherwise it may be doomed to failure. It is also an extremely valuable skill for those who occupy leadership roles in these processes, as it is often necessary to channel wills towards the achievement of the common goal.