A big experiment still echoes: Transformational Collaboration Experiment

12 Dec A big experiment still echoes: Transformational Collaboration Experiment

It started with TCE.

That’s Transformational Collaboration Experiment to be exact.

And the first rule of TCE was don’t talk about TCE.

Because back in 2017, the United Way of Reno County and Hutchinson Community Foundation wanted a low-key way to try out an idea, fail small if need be and learn.

That idea arose in response to the persistent observation that a trust deficit was impeding organizations’ ability to collaborate, ultimately hindering progress in solving community challenges.

So modeling the collaboration they sought, the organizations worked together to quietly invite a select group of nonprofit, government and faith leaders to participate in a year-long experiment that involved regular small- and large-group sessions under the guidance of a cohort facilitator and coach, who also met with participants individually.

During the experience, participants explored what it takes to actually collaborate across organizations and sectors and then shared their learnings with Hutch CF and UWRC.

Seven years later, the big experiment continues to ripple through the community.

“Back in 2017, we talked about TCE as fertilizing the soil for possible collaboration, and we expected the seeds to take root and sprout over time. It’s really the relationships—the trust and the common language—that became the foundation for so many initiatives and experiments. We continue to put what we learned into practice when we create and improve programs and processes at Hutch CF,” said Kari Mailloux, who co-created TCE alongside Lisa Gleason and Ron Fisher.

THE TCE EFFECT

KLC Transformation Grant

TCE positioned Hutch CF, and the community, to begin partnering with the Kansas Leadership Center on their annual Transformation Grant. The grant pays tuition for residents wishing to attend KLC programs that instill leadership principles and spur relationships and collaboration. Since 2019, 142 individuals representing 63 Reno County businesses and organizations have attended the program.

Leadership Cohort
In 2024, a new component was added to the KLC Transformation Grant experience: a cohort that applies leadership competencies to an adaptive challenge. This year 24 individuals focused on mental health in Reno County as part of the Mental Health Leadership Cohort. Subsequent years will involve a new area of focus. “My time with the cohort has helped me make new connections with other community members. I’ve also been able to strengthen connections I already had, even with my own coworkers. I’m continuing to learn why progress can be difficult, but I’m energized to continue working. We have a lot of caring individuals, and we are more powerful together,” said Cammie Rumback, cohort member.

Co-office space
Donna Davis, former BrightHouse executive director; Laurie Carr, former program director at the Reno County Health Department; Denice Gilliland, former Big Brothers Big Sisters Serving Reno County executive director ; and Lance Patterson, Boys and Girls Clubs of Hutchinson executive director met regularly for coffee following their experience as TCE participants. A collaborative co-office agreement between the Boys & Girls Clubs and Big Brothers Big Sisters emerged from the time spent building trust and exploring opportunities together. In 2019, BBBS moved into the BGC office, solving a space challenge for BBBS and bringing two youth-serving organizations with complementary missions under one roof.

Leadership coaching
TCE participants found working with a leadership coach a top benefit of the experience. So in 2023, Hutch CF piloted a program offering the opportunity to those wishing to make progress on a project or challenge, and in 2024, the initiative fully launched. Participants may apply to the Fund for Reno County for a grant covering the cost. Unlike sports coaches, leadership coaches don’t offer training or expertise. Instead, they are a thought partner dedicated to helping individuals or groups make progress.

A gift to dream
A primary benefit of TCE was dedicated time and space to consider what’s possible, a luxury many organizations can rarely afford. In 2023, Hutch CF began making the Gift to Dream Grant, an annual $2,500 award to one organization needing a boost to help them make progress on their mission. Milestone Clubhouse and the Reno County Museum have each received the grant. In 2024, NAMI Reno County received the award in honor of our Legacy Society.