You’ve probably heard me say, “Collaboration is the new currency.” It’s how associations go further, faster. It’s how they extend their reach and influence. And it’s how they can gain momentum for initiatives that would take longer as a solo effort.
Recently, diverse groups throughout Illinois joined forces to expand the “Buy Fresh Buy Local” food movement, partnering in a statewide print and online directory. “None of our individual groups had the resources to reach beyond our region,” said Molly Gleason, spokeswoman for the Illinois Stewardship Alliance, as quoted in the State Journal-Register. She also noted, “By coming together we have a chance to break through the noise.” This is exactly why collaboration is such a powerful strategy.
Several associations are participating in Buy Fresh Buy Local directory effort, including the Illinois Farm Bureau, the Illinois Specialty Crop Growers Association and the Illinois Farmers Market Association.
Collaboration is the embodiment of an African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together.”