Social Transformation
by Skillful Means

IISC works for change at the global and national levels as well as within communities, organizations, and school systems. Our approach – regardless of the size or scope of the client or system with which we are working – demonstrates the power of bringing together key stakeholders to create shared visions and strategies for concerted action. Our work resonates with the literature on network building, social capital development, power analysis, community building, civic engagement, and good old-fashioned social change.

Below, we provide some examples of initiatives for which we have served as designer, facilitator, and coach.

Making Change on Global and National Issues

The Peace and Security Initiative
Over 50 activist organizations, scholars, and funders were convened by the Ploughshares Fund in the face of the sobering national security environment following September 11th and the significant reduction in foundation support for nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament work. IISC designed and facilitated a collaborative planning process that involved over 650 people in developing a shared vision, strategies, and tactics to reframe peace and security issues and regain lost political relevance and effectiveness. The plan is now in the implementation phase and IISC continues to serve as the lead facilitator.

Making Change Across a City

Cherish Every Child Springfield
The Davis Foundation posed a powerful question: “What will it take for the whole city of Springfield, Massachusetts to come together around improving the lives of children?” What resulted was, according to Springfield Chamber of Commerce President Russ Denver, “The most carefully planned and well thought-out initiative around a social issue I’ve ever seen in Springfield.” IISC designed and facilitated a process involving nearly 1,000 people, causing a ripple effect of momentum and commitment among the city’s business and community organizations to focus on helping young children thrive. Throughout the process, IISC not only facilitated but trained local leaders to develop their capacity to sustain the effort.

Making Change at the Neighborhood Level

Making Connections Providence
Making Connections Providence was launched as part of the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s national Making Connections Initiative to support children by strengthening their families and the social and economic supports available to them through their neighborhoods. IISC worked with the leadership team to design an inclusive neighborhood-based process that engaged families in developing a ten-year vision and goals and strategies to realize that vision. IISC also trained members of the leadership team in facilitation and collaborative leadership skills.

Making Change at the Organizational Level

Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts (PPLM)
Over the course of a year long planning process, IISC staff worked with PPLM board members and senior management to create a five-year strategic plan that incorporated input from all staff. In addition, IISC provided training in collaborative leadership skills and coaching techniques to over half of the organization’s personnel. The result, in the words of Executive Director Dianne Luby, was “transformational.” The process of strategizing together facilitated teamwork and understanding across departments and sites as well as between board and staff. The leadership and coaching trainings developed skills that led to more focused planning, organization, and teamwork. And with its strategic plan, PPLM developed a unified vision and concrete steps for making the organization a mainstream player around reproductive rights.

Making Change in School Systems

North Carolina Network
The North Carolina Network was established to develop systemic strategies for schools and school districts across the state to implement school-based management. The Network’s membership includes twenty-seven school districts, a university, and other nonprofit partners. Through a licensing arrangement, IISC trains NC Network trainers to offer Facilitative Leadership® to its members with the ultimate aim of creating collaborative school cultures for increased student performance.