When coalitions and partnerships lack alignment, conflict resolution, or sustained support, competing agendas and power imbalances erode trust, displace local groups, and weaken long-term collaboration.
View the details on what communities have shared with SLECC from across the state.
Power imbalances between large institutions and smaller CBOs constrain frontline organizations under grant requirements they cannot meet, limit their compensation, and risk displacing the community relationships and trust they have built.
Lack of sustained partnership structures leads to short-term, grant-driven collaboration. Coalitions are often formed solely to pursue individual grants and dissolve once funding ends, disrupting continuity, eroding trust, and preventing long-term, relationship-based collaboration.
Coalitions lack structures and resources for conflict resolution and shared governance. Without formal processes—or funding for mediation and facilitation—partnerships struggle to address disagreements, leading to deteriorating relationships and loss of momentum.
SLECC stakeholders have brainstormed the following solution opportunities that can be taken by local leaders. Existing examples of progress or pathways to make further progress are highlighted if known.
Structure multi-partner project teams that distribute roles according to organizational strengths (with CBOs handling community engagement and relationships while partners with greater administrative capacity manage fiscal management and reporting) including coalitions across local governments, CDFIs, environmental justice organizations, and housing groups where each contributes what it does best.
SLECC stakeholders have brainstormed the following solution opportunities that can be taken by state leaders. Existing examples of progress or pathways to make further progress are highlighted if known.
Support and fund regional collaboration models that streamline efforts and share resources. State agencies should help organize and finance regional coalitions, offering technical and financial assistance for pooled resources, joint trust funds, and shared planning mechanisms that reduce duplication and strengthen coordination.
Provide sustained support for long-term, trust-based partnerships. State programs should move away from short-term, project-based collaboration by funding longer-term grant cycles (beyond five years), allowing coalitions the time and stability needed to sustain relationships, build trust, and deliver lasting outcomes.
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Please share any additional resources you would like to include by emailing eecoordinator@civicwell.org.
