Healthy Collaborations - A Short sheet

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In May 2016 the Midwest Division of Young Life created a strategic plan that included intentionality toward collaborating with like-minded organizations.  A group of 6 YL staff supervised by the YL Training Department- “Mission Movers” conducted research and created a template outlining the principles that could guide us forward in developing sustainable collaborations that would benefit kids toward whole and Christ like care.  This is a short sheet on their findings. As we transition our Capernaum friends toward life long Christian community these can be very helpful guidelines.

WHY Healthy Collaborations are IMPORTANT
We can model a fuller model of the Body of Christ.
We can better ensure kids involved in life long Christian community.
We can more fully serve kids as we create access to more holistic programs.
We can create opportunities to learn from others.
We will have more engaged adults in kid’s lives.
As we serve we may have something to offer other organizations in their mission.

As of November 2016 YL in the Midwest Division had over 40 collaborative relationships mostly with churches.  The collaborations that were most successful had the following ingredients.
Healthy, scheduled and regular communication.  
A supervisor of collaboration.
Consistent leadership
Funding
Clear expectations in writing.
Similar core values/mission or like-minded organization.

HOW do you develop Healthy Collaborations?

Step 1.  Identify key Stakeholders to buy in.  Stakeholders at every level of both organizations.
Pray together.  Seek the Holy Spirit’s direction.  
Get to know each other.
Assess current and mutual needs as well as gaps.
Pursue new relationships with other key leaders/pastors who are making an impact in the area.

Step 2.  Clarify Focus
Identify possible partners and define what the relationship could look like.  
(Define the Relationship)
Determine the missional focus.
Discuss Mission Statement | Statement of Faith | Faith and Conduct of each organization to ensure like-mindedness.
Clarify role expectations.

Step 3.  Define the Template for Collaborative Relationship
Fill out template questionnaire.
Using the template results form a Memorandum of Understanding.
Write and agree on job description and actions steps with dates if possible and as needed.
Implement a plan for regular communication and an annual evaluation.

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