Step Forward, an initiative of Community Foundation of North Louisiana, re-launched on December 7th welcoming over 70 network partners for a Combined Network Convening. The convening brought the Building Foundations, Building Futures and Building Resilience networks together to begin setting intentions and goals for 2022.
In the general session, network members heard from StriveTogether Coach, Nicole Johnson, as she explained the StriveTogether Theory of Action Model. Dr. Wesley Hinze discussed “The Use of Local Data” that is collected and shared in Step Forward’s Report to the Community. Step Forward Director, Carla Burgos, presented “Collaborative Action in Action” and explained each network’s role in the cradle to career efforts for children in North Louisiana.
In the breakout session, network members revisited previous action plans, outcomes, and next steps. They were introduced to StriveTogether tools that will be used to improve the collaboration process and track results. Information from each breakout session was shared with the larger group. Network members expressed a need to revisit the action plans and identify goals that will improve outcomes. We were fortunate to have many talented individuals present who shared good ideas as well as a commitment to the Step Forward goals and process.
In closing, network members were reminded of the importance of collaboration in moving from talk to action. Step Forward believes that collaboration builds stronger communities and leads to stronger outcomes for children in North Louisiana. The networks will reconvene in February 2022 to continue its cradle to career efforts.
To learn more about Step Forward, click here.
