The Power of Networking

In today’s complex world one simple fact remains absolutely true . . . we work better when we connect and collaborate with each other. As we all try to stay even in a rapidly changing world, there is more to know and more to do than ever before. Our primary role as leaders in the education foundation movement is to connect our local communities with their public schools. But sadly, there never seems to be enough time to connect with each other.

CCEF has been focusing on this dilemma in recent months. We consistently hear from our members that they need quality opportunities to share ideas, frustrations, and techniques with their peers. At our workshops and conferences attendees repeatedly tell us that a chance to dialogue and problem-solve together is extremely worthwhile and beneficial. Networking is a learning experience and a powerful way to stay current with the best practices and evolving policies that affect us as professionals and volunteers.

Last spring, I met with foundation leaders in the San Mateo/Santa Clara and was impressed with their willingness to share ideas and approaches to help make foundations more effective. Foundations in Marin have been coordinating a joint publicity campaign with the county office of education to raise funds and awareness about common concerns facing their public schools. Last year, colleagues in the Sacramento area held a series of gatherings to provide mutual support and information. These are all great examples of how networking contributes to foundation success.

Beginning this fall, CCEF is launching an ambitious Regional Networking Program to better reach out to LEF leaders across the state and link them to each other as a powerful force for public education. Members of the Consortium’s Board of Directors are personally calling LEF officers and educators in their area to invite them to get involved and engaged with their colleagues through the CCEF Network.

Plans are underway to sponsor a statewide Webinar in October as the inaugural event to bring LEF officers, volunteers and educators together on a regional basis. We will present topical information and then offer breakout sessions where you can share your thoughts and ideas in a local setting. In the coming weeks we will be announcing details of this exciting new outreach program.

To find out more about the CCEF Network access our web site at www.cceflink.com.

By Susan Sweeney, CCEF Executive Director