Communication and Feedback Practices to Strengthen Cross-Sector Partnership

When community-based organizations and schools are immersed in the work of serving youth and families, it can be difficult to find time to invest in relationships between the adults and organizations who are coordinating services. And yet, lack of communication and coordination can lead to challenges and conflict. 

What practices can you put in place that align with values you share with your partners, such as building trust, continuous improvement, and accountability? In this interactive virtual workshop, we will explore ways to build a culture of open and effective communication within our partnerships, including giving and receiving feedback. Participants will become familiar with tools that support communication and equitable facilitation of meetings and identify Feedback Touch Points to incorporate into their collaborative relationships. Our guiding tools from YDEKC’s School and Community Partnership Toolkit will provide you with resources to explore during the workshop and to apply after the session in depth. 

This workshop is designed for leaders at all levels within schools, school districts, and community-based organizations who are developing or managing partnerships between schools and community-based organizations. It is strongly recommended for people looking for ways to improve communication with one or more partner organizations. Funded by the King County Best Starts for Kids levy, this free session is open to organizations doing work in King County, with an emphasis on supporting King County Best Starts for Kids grantees. 

Additional Resource for King County Best Starts for Kids Grantees: YDEKC is serving as a Capacity Builder for King County Best Starts for Kids Grantees, with a focus on supporting school-community partnerships. Grantees may request free one-on-one coaching and technical assistance in this area by contacting Jorji Knickrehm at jknickrehm@kingcounty.gov and Anne Powell Arias at aarias@ydekc.org