Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
To fight the effects of the food desert, the dollar stores started carrying basic food staples. In addition
to providing fresh food for the community, the collaboration of the three entities (Urban Patch, Fall
Creek Gardens, and the dollar stores) evolved into a partnership that provided educational opportunities
to community members. Participants were taught basic nutrition and cooking skills using low-cost
staples, as well as where to get affordable foods and recipes. The dollar stores then shared the recipes
and posted them on the shelves with their advertising.
Working together with limited and imperfect resources, the OASIS program has forged a partnership
in which everyone benefits: the program fulfills its mission, the dollar stores make a profit and provide
a service to the community, and community members have access to both the products and information
they need to make smarter food decisions. A win, win, win situation.
THE EXTENDED TEAM: FRIENDS AND PARTNERSHIPS
We've talked a lot about harnessing the ideas and enthusiasm of the individuals involved in your garden,
but let's not overlook the power of partnerships.
If your garden is to have a social mandate of any kind, there is probably a nearby charitable, civic,
or community organization or social service that could be a potential partner. Partnerships can be as
minimal as like-minded people helping to spread the word about the garden program, or providing a
potential volunteer pool to property owners who might provide space, resources, or support for your
garden. No doubt, outside groups also have their own agendas, but if you can find the sweet spot where
missions intersect, this can be a powerful foundation for the success of all involved parties.
There are many excellent reasons to partner with an established organization, but one of the greatest
benefits is a built-in community that may be interested in the garden. Plus, they have the communication
channels to reach out to their members directly. By sharing your communication needs with a partner
organization, you not only get the benefit of their knowledge and enthusiasm, but also access to their
participants.
It is very easy to be one-sided with partnership (or sponsor) relationships. You need something and
they have it (clout, connections, land, supplies). Being selfish isn't going to help with long-term rela-
tionships. You need to consider what their wants, needs, and goals are as well, and work toward mutual
success.
Also understand that partnerships take time. You may need to do a small project together before a
partner is willing to take a big step with your group. Choose something that you know your organization
can do successfully and keep your promises. This is important with everything you do, not just initial
projects with partners. But, as your relationship develops, you'll understand how to work together and
cut each other a little slack if things don't always go according to plan. Partnerships are like any other
relationship—it takes time to work out the kinks. Expect this and don't rush the process.
THE RECIPROCITY MAP: A PARTNERSHIP
BREAKOUT
