Partners from across Graduate Tacoma’s Collaborative Action Networks (CAN) gathered earlier this month to celebrate their work and plan for the future together. During this quarterly event, partners join forces to discuss the ways in which we can work together to support students on their journey to success.
We discussed critical components required to create authentic collaborative spaces and how we can foster open, honest, and transparent communication while staying true to our aligned values and goals. We actively sought input from our partners on how the Foundation for Tacoma Students can best support them as a backbone organization. We also took the opportunity to discuss topics of interest that our partners would like us to address in future convenings.
Partners expressed a keen interest in building relationships with each other and working collaboratively to ensure that every student has the tools they need to thrive. They shared their desire for filling in the gaps in access to programming and to create spaces where students can flourish. We discussed the importance of engaging families and youth and the need for additional investments and funding to achieve these goals. After collecting all of the feedback, we have identified the top three priorities that emerged. These priorities, in no particular order, are as follows:
- 21% convening in a way that maximizes resources for students and organizations
- 19 % – professional development and training
- 18% – connecting with partners who are doing similar work
The insights gained from these discussions will serve as our guideposts as we design future convenings. By fostering a culture of open communication, we aim to create an environment where all of our partners feel heard and valued. As we continue to evolve and grow, we remain steadfast in our commitment to keeping our partners and students at the heart of all our efforts.
During the upcoming individual CAN meetings, we will delve into more detail about the feedback we received. Additionally, we will introduce a new way to convening beginning next school year, which will address the feedback expressed by partners.
We are committed to helping partners build their capacity and capability to address and disrupt inequities impacting young people. With a shared commitment to student success, we will continue to work collaboratively, creatively, and innovatively to build a brighter future.
We extend a heartfelt gratitude to all of our partners who continue to maintain the momentum of this movement for over a decade now, and we look forward to continuing this important work together.
