Local Partnerships

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To become an effective community-based organization, a Neighborhood Networks center must reach beyond its property and tap the wealth of community resources.

Potential partners are often right next door. Consider community organizations, employers, community colleges, the police department, and volunteer organizations to provide services including social services and funding. Perhaps a local arts center could donate art supplies or teach a class?

Any number of local organizations may be interested in collaborating with centers on programs, sharing resources, or even providing funding for centers.

A center's success in placing adult residents in jobs, accessing resources for children and seniors, raising funds, and effecting change in the community depends, in large part, upon its network of local partners.

Click on the links for information and resources related to local partnerships. Keep these additional tips in mind:

	Draw partners from more than one source. Every neighborhood has a wealth of potential partners, so canvass the community for opportunities. Possibilities include schools and colleges, nonprofit organizations, community and religious organizations, foundations, businesses, and government agencies.
	Partners must benefit, too. Always be able to explain how a partnership will benefit a potential partner. Benefits may include favorable publicity for the partner, better fulfillment of the partner's community mission, or the development of a new consumer market.
	Partnership building requires a team approach. Owners/managers, residents, and staff must be involved in identifying and soliciting partners. Owners and managers should take the lead by forming a steering committee, board of directors, or resident council that can form a partnership development plan and provide the labor needed to solicit and work with each partner. Center staff is essential for maintaining partnership contacts and identifying new sources of funding or support.
	Partners are attracted to centers that are active in the community and have reliable staffs and a solid financial base. These qualities help assure partners that their contribution to a center is well-invested.

If you have any questions on how to find potential partners for your Neighborhood Networks center, contact your local HUD Neighborhood Networks Coordinator or Public Housing Neighborhood Networks Grant Manager.