How do you collaborate and partner with other non-profits or agencies that serve seniors?

1 Identify common goals and values

Before you approach or accept an invitation to collaborate or partner with another non-profit or agency, you should do some research and reflection on their goals and values. What is their mission statement, vision, and core values? How do they align with yours? What are their main programs, services, and target populations? How do they measure their outcomes and impact? How do they communicate and engage with their stakeholders and the community? These questions can help you assess whether there is a good fit and potential for synergy between your organizations.

4 Leverage strengths and resources

One of the benefits of collaborating and partnering with another non-profit or agency is that you can leverage each other's strengths and resources to achieve more than you could alone. You should identify and utilize the unique skills, knowledge, networks, and assets that each organization brings to the table. You should also seek opportunities to learn from each other and exchange best practices and insights. You should also explore ways to pool or share resources, such as funding, staff, volunteers, equipment, space, or materials, to reduce costs and increase efficiency.

5 Evaluate and improve

Collaborating and partnering with another non-profit or agency is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires evaluation and improvement. You should regularly review the performance and outcomes of the collaboration or partnership, using quantitative and qualitative data and feedback from all stakeholders. You should also solicit and provide constructive feedback to your partner or collaborator, and identify areas for improvement or adjustment. You should also recognize and appreciate the achievements and challenges of the collaboration or partnership, and celebrate the impact and value it creates for the seniors you serve.

6 Network and expand

Collaborating and partnering with another non-profit or agency can also open up new opportunities and connections for your organization and your volunteer work. You should network and expand your relationships with other organizations and individuals that are involved or interested in serving seniors. You should also seek to join or create coalitions, alliances, or networks that can amplify your voice and advocacy for seniors' issues and needs. You should also look for ways to diversify and scale up your collaborations and partnerships, to reach more seniors and create more positive change.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?