Changing Culture - Worth the Effort!

It is amazing what can be accomplished with a few people who are invested in a cause. A year ago I embarked on a new project within my community. A friend of mine and I wanted to begin a running club for young girls. Faced with challenges, we tweaked our plan. We decided to approach the school with a larger, more robust idea - create a healthier community for our children, the staff and the community. The idea was not only embraced by our principal, but we were also given the green light to create a Council and start improving the health of our community ASAP.

It has been a year since CATENA STRONG was formed, and we are excited to have exceeded our participation and awareness goals for our first year. What is even more exciting is the momentum and excitement around this program. Given the opportunity, very busy parents and teachers will take the time be a part of something they believe in. Something that allows them to make a positive impact on their community and the environment they live in.

Lessons learned in the process:
1. Group decision making might take longer, but it affords ownership and commitment to the initiative. Long-term solution, rather than short-term impact.
2. Being part of something that is fun, and tangible is essential to create excitement within a group of volunteers.
3. Giving volunteers a specific "job" ensures empowerment and helps them know their value.
4. Ideas are great, but converting them to initiatives take time, coordination and the willingness to compromise with stakeholders in the process.
5. Volunteers usually have a preference to be a leader or not, respecting this preference is key.

The experience and impact has been incredible, and I am honored to have been able to help lead such a successful effort with a group of fantastic people. I plan to continue the effort & build on successes for greater impact. Culture change is hard, but worth the effort when you can see & feel it happening!