(This is part 1 of a 2-part series of posts in preparation for the Institute’s Webinar series on environmental strategies. Click here for more information or to access the registration page.)
A recipe for environmental strategies is what you want? Unfortunately, no such thing exists. Let me explain further using some examples of technical assistance calls and e-mails that I get from coalitions across the United States.
Shannon, this is... from the... coalition in ... I need some examples of coalitions who have done really well with environmental strategies in their community. My coalition does not quite realize how environmental strategies work and they want examples of what other coalitions have done. Can you direct me to them?”
First, do you know how many coalitions in the United States successfully plan and implement environmental strategies? TONS! It would be close to impossible for any one person to keep up with all of them. But, I’m amazed to know that each community is very different and no single recipe for success exists when it comes to environmental prevention strategies.
Consider the political challenges associated with the implementation of environmental strategies. Understanding the current climate within your own community is a significant task and matching the conditions in your community with another would be next to impossible. And you must address more than just political challenges.
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look at how successful coalitions have implemented environmental strategies. In fact, the Institute provides information from a number of successful coalitions in our Environmental Prevention Strategies publication. Just realize that their recipe will not be the one your coalition will need to create effective strategies for your community.
Ask yourself if your coalition REALLY knows what environmental strategies are and if members could benefit from FREE online training offered by the Institute. Yes, you read that correctly. The session takes about 90-minutes (or less if necessary) and not everyone has to be in the same room. We’ll access an online classroom, provide you with the link and a toll-free phone number. It is that simple. Interested? Call me at 800-54-CADCA, ext. 240.
This post was written by Shannon Weatherly, Technical Assistance Manager for CADCA's National Coalition Institute. Her e-mail address is sweatherly@cadca.org, and her phone number is 800-542-2322, ext. 240.