We’ve now held Agency Alliance Days in May, June, and July 2022. This is Ryan, and I am writing this a few hours after #3 wrapped up, and I’m exhausted but I’m also happy. Today’s crowd was amazing, which is partly due to us getting better at advertising but is mainly due to combining the Alliance Day with Tameeka’s Back to School event sponsored by IMPACT (Tameeka’s other non-profit).
I think that’s a lesson learned for these monthly events – combine it with something that is a powerful draw. Just coming to learn about service organizations is not quite enough – but people *love* talking to all the organizations if they’re already there for something else, like free school supplies / music / fun & games.
Our long-term goal, the one-stop shop for services, will include built-in draws like a thrift store, a coffee shop, food pantry, etc. It will also include a community space that can be used for events like this. So I think today’s event was really a validation of our vision – if we build it, and it has enough attractors, the people will come.
I’m also happy because I met one new person today who really seemed excited about the one-stop shop for services idea. We’re still building our team, and finding passionate people who “catch the vision” is really important. (If that describes you, btw, please Contact Us!) The right person, in the right place, at the right time, can make all the difference.
My hope is to start holding monthly in-person meetings where we can get serious about marching toward the long-term goal. The road ahead is very foggy – and we need to start moving forward and see what we discover. My goal is to have this building in 2024 – is that realistic? Who knows! Does it matter? “Our intention creates our reality.” “If you think you can, you can. And if you think you can’t, you’re right”. (Wayne Dyer and Henry Ford, respectively.) We’re going to make this happen.
-Ryan (Disclaimer: these are my personal thoughts and opinions.)