The Educational Service District 113 Student Support Services Team (ESD 113) facilitates the growth and development of school- and community-based academic, health, extracurricular, and social supports for K-12 students in southwest Washington.
Challenge
A national movement towards rallying similar organizations supporting similar young people in schools and during out-of-school time led ESD 113 to convene a similar coalition. Without a concise action plan or engaging facilitator, the ESD was concerned their coalition may not succeed. Searching for a premier leader with similar experience, the ESD called on SoundOut to inform and guide this effort.
Solutions
Starting in spring 2012, SoundOut staff provided leadership to the Pacific Mountain Regional Youth Alliance through a contract with Educational Service District 113 in Tumwater, Washington. We consulted a planning team including representatives from five organizations focused on developing a collective impact strategy to affect change in southwest Washington. We also facilitated Alliance gatherings for up to 125 participants, as well as planning team meetings.
The Alliance, including Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Thurston, and the northern part of Pacific Counties, is planning, convening, and supporting youth agencies, individuals, and other partnering organizations as they engage, collaborate and activate the advancement of culturally relevant family and community roles for student success from early childhood through college. Focused on establishing a collective impact model, the Alliance convenes meetings, shares resources, and holds other events on the regional and county levels.
Outcomes
SoundOut helped the Alliance develop short- and long-term strategic plans, provided event facilitation for up to 125 people as well as small leadership team meetings with several organizational representatives, and consulted the ESD on future activities.
Results included a sustainable long-term action plan for the Alliance; new countywide coalitions affecting up to 250,000 youth throughout the region; and increased determination and motivation among participants into the future.
Resources
SoundOut Education Consulting 