Partners are people who represent institutions like schools, museums, libraries, other out-of-school learning organizations, professional learning communities, foundations, and local businesses.
They've got things you need (experiences, relationships, clout, funding) and you've got things they need (ideas, skills, programs, students, space, vim and vigor). They are gatekeepers to many students and families. They are part of your community and your networks.
Partnering with other organizations helps you build your profile, expand your reach, and enrich your programming. It may also build a bridge between you and the wider world of learning trailblazers (you're not alone!) You might build a symbiotic relationship to help grow both of your organizations.
What partners do depends on what kind of organization they are. Schools may be looking for enrichment or afterschool providers. Libraries might be looking for teaching artists or makers. Local businesses might make a donation ("Pizza for this Learning Party brought to you by your friends on the corner!").
Locally, start in your own neighborhood. Call nearby schools and see if they have an afterschool enrichment coordinator or community liaison you can meet with. Do a Google search for philanthropies serving your area and find out what their grantmaking priorities are. Nationally, look up membership and advocacy organizations for the issues you care about.
<aside> ⚙️ Read even more about where to find partners in 🏡 Place!
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Partners are about relationships. You'll mainly be meeting, talking, learning, exchanging, and collaborating. This is the networking side of the work and it's essential to your growth and sustainability. Make it a point to reach out and establish contact, meet for coffee, offer to host visitors and ask to be hosted. You could also partner with other out-of-school, afterschool, and library programs to have shared staff trainings and build camaraderie amongst your folks.