This publication was made possible by Grant Number D89MC25209 from HRSA. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the HRSA.

 DC was identified as 1:17 NE counties being at an increased risk for poor child health outcomes.  Convened a group of stakeholders who would analyze data make strategic decision for Douglas County home visiting  Primary group (stakeholders) consisted of the home visitation providers in Douglas County (9).  Each stakeholder was then asked to recruit 2-3 organizations or individuals with ECS/HV knowledge to attend. (Circle of Connectivity/Ripple Effect)

 Completed a comprehensive assessment of the county’s ECS & HV services and identified gaps and needs and how EBHV could address those needs. (Utilize local and state data resources)  Stakeholders determined that Healthy Families America (HFA) best fit the needs of the target population.  DCHD released an RFP to subcontract with 1-2 agencies who would provide HFA to 100 families in DC.  Lutheran Family Services and Nebraska Children’s Home Society submitted successful proposals and are currently working to serve 50 families each.

 To empower elements of the community  To obtain or provide services  For effective and efficient delivery of programs  To pool resources  To increase communication among groups  To plan and launch community-wide initiatives  To develop and use political clout  To create long-term, permanent social change

 Turf issues  Bad history  Minimal organizational capacity  Funding  Failure to provide/create leadership  Lack of communication  Lack of common goal

 Recognition  Respect  Role  Relationships  Reward  Results  Engage on a regular basis  Increase/allow opportunities for communication  Revisit plan to identify/recruit new members

 Communicate openly and freely with everyone › No “parking lot” discussions  Be inclusive and participatory  Network at every opportunity  Set concrete, reachable goals  Be creative › Data Walk  Be realistic and keep your promises  Acknowledge diversity among your members  PRAISE and CELEBRATE SUCCESSES

Thank You! Kay Jessen, M.S. Douglas County Health Department