Perils of Collaboration

One of our highest values at Catalyst is synergy. We love to see compatible organizations and people drawn together to multiply their impact.

Our hope is that as we become familiar with various aspects of ministry, relief, and development work we can help to make some of those connections; truly serving as a catalyst to make things happen.

Of course it isn't always that easy. Most organizations have a few stories of failed attempts to work in harmony with others. In many cases best intentions fell apart either because there wasn't enough time taken to carefully define the roles and responsibilities of the partners, or the shared project functionally required one or both groups to move outside of their mandate and strength.

Noticing and suggesting collaborative possibilities is relatively simple. Bringing the parties together is a valuable step. But the real work comes in working to develop synergies that don't diminish the values and purposes of anyone involved. If we can figure out how to do that, we'll really be doing something significant.