Literacy Matters NWTLC logo image Spring 2002
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Partnerships
From the Tools for Community Building Manual


What is a partnership?

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A partnership is formed when people with different backgrounds, ideas, skills and resources agree to work together, as equals, to reach a common goal.

Partnerships usually form when groups of people have a common cause or a common need. Partnerships start to develop when two or more groups have a shared vision for the future. To reach their vision, the partners agree to share:

check mark image the work
check mark image the decision-making
check mark image the resources
check mark image the problems that may happen along the way
check mark image the good that comes from working together

Community-based partnerships happen when the common cause or need is felt by the community.

Community-based partnerships:

check mark image are formed by the community for the community
check mark image are formed by people who want change for their community
check mark image keep the power and decision-making in the community
check mark image support local products and services
check mark image bring together a number of community goals


Why form a partnership?

Partnerships are formed for many different reasons. People create partnerships to:

check mark image Bring different people together
Partners from different groups can bring different ideas and views to the table.
check mark image Get inspired
project. Partners can bring new ideas and enthusiasm to the
check mark image Lighten the workload
Partners share the work and the responsibility.
check mark image Save resources
Partnerships can save money by sharing things like equipment and materials.
check mark image Build on success
The more people involved in the project, the more ideas and better chance of success.
check mark image Give strength
Partnerships can give people a united voice which is often heard more than a single voice.

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