Whether you build an informal network aiming toward the same goal or a coalition with a governance and committee structure, building coalitions is vital to your success. To make coalitions work, have a sense of your goal, then do the following things to build a coalition that has broad, lasting impact:
LISTEN. Listening is powerful. Our experience coordinating diverse coalitions required us to listen to diverse views and understand the organizational context in which those views are being expressed. Organizations work in coalitions for different reasons, and each coalition operates according to the needs and objective of the groups working together. Coalitions can be effective if they have a clear sense of common purpose.
ORGANIZE. From a small organization working from a “one table” governance structure to a big coalition with distinct roles and responsibilities, we can manage and help you grow your formal or informal coalition.
UNITE. Unity takes work. Viewpoints may differ, but a clearly articulated common purpose, clear communications and decision-making process help diverse perspectives speak with a united voice.
DIVERSIFY. Diversify the perspectives in your coalition. Diversify your base of support — make strange bedfellows to amplify your cause. Diversify the voices telling your story.
ENGAGE. Engage new supporters with stories that are accessible to audiences that may not share your priorities or passion, but whose support is crucial to what you want to accomplish.
RESPOND. Be responsive to the needs of your supporters, to the threats to your cause, and to the opportunities to make an impact.