Coalition Building is a concept that has been around for some time, and is often used to oppose the religious right. It is a process that involves forming coalitions to address specific issues in a community. In New York City, there are many coalitions that have been formed to tackle a variety of issues, such as youth violence, homelessness, domestic violence, and intolerance towards Muslims. This article will provide an overview of how individuals and organizations can join existing coalitions in New York City.
Identifying Potential CoalitionsThe first step in joining an existing coalition is to identify potential coalitions that are relevant to your interests. The New York City Bar Association is one example of an organization that provides legal services and promotes law reform. The Training Center for Strong Families and Communities is another organization that uses an evidence-based model to engage neighborhood partners and improve the life outcomes of families throughout New York City. NYXT is another organization that highlights many prominent New York City organizations that provide valuable opportunities to participate in politics and promotion, both locally and globally.
Forming a Core Group
Once you have identified potential coalitions, the next step is to form a core group.This core group can be comprised of individuals, staff members, or even a new coalition governing body. It is up to the core group to plan a meeting that will set the coalition off on the right foot. It is important to anticipate any potential obstacles that may arise when forming a coalition, as this can dictate the process the coalition will need to follow to start successfully.
Recruiting Members
The next step is to recruit members for the coalition. Depending on the issue being addressed, it may be beneficial to recruit members from specific populations.For example, if the coalition is addressing youth violence, it may be beneficial to recruit adolescents (perhaps gang members) as main members of the group. If the coalition is addressing homelessness and housing, it may be beneficial to recruit current or former homeless people.
Evaluating Effectiveness
Once the coalition has been formed, it is important to evaluate its effectiveness. The Coalition Effectiveness Inventory (CEI) is a checklist for coalition personnel and key leaders to evaluate the effectiveness of the coalition. This checklist can help ensure that the coalition is achieving its goals and objectives.Conclusion
Joining existing coalitions in New York City can be a great way for individuals and organizations to get involved in their community and make a positive impact.By following these steps, individuals and organizations can join existing coalitions in New York City and help make a difference.
