NEW COVENANT

Ministering Together

A Step-by-Step

Guide for

Collaboration

with Catholic

and Other

Community

Partners

November 2003 Introduction

It is our pleasure to present Association of the United States. Ministering Together: A Step-by- Titled Greater Than the Parts: “We believe that Step Guide for Collaboration With A Collaboration Handbook for church ministries can Catholic and Other Community Catholic Charities and Health more authentically Partners, a New Covenant initiative. Care Organizations, the study and effectively fulfill This guide reflects the New documents the current breadth of Covenant’s directive to strengthen ministerial collaboration, identifies the caring and healing and promote the organized factors that facilitate or impede mission of Jesus by expression of Catholic caring effective partnerships, and working together and healing ministries by working describes steps for local leaders. rather than separately.” together rather than separately. We have also included an Much of the collaboration dis- appendix that is a “how-to” guide Ministering Together: cussed in this guide is between two for those interested in forming a A Shared Vision for Caring and Healing Ministries, 2000 or more ministries of the Catholic collaboration with Catholic Church. This ministry-to-ministry Charities, Catholic hospitals, collaboration is emphasized parishes, Catholic schools, col- 1 because we have discovered that leges, and universities on behalf although in some communities a of vulnerable populations such as rich collaboration is taking place, immigrants, migrants, refugees, the in many other communities homeless, and vulnerable women. caring ministries work in isolation, In keeping with the direction of often dealing with similar New Covenant, Catholic ministries problems but without the help are doing more than just healing of natural partners. the sick and comforting the poor. Collaboration with other-than- Instead, we are creating transfor- Catholic community organizations mation. Following Jesus’ example, sharing our vision of service is we are challenging aspects of our also important if we are to address society that perpetuate unjust critical community problems. structures, and we are creating We partner with vulnerable fundamental changes in our people, community leaders, and social order. We are demonstrating community service organizations that by ministering together, to uncover needs, plan how to our collective action can truly best address them, and carry out make a difference. vital services. This guide is based on a Signed by: national study of collaboration The New Covenant Steering sponsored by Catholic Charities Committee USA and the Catholic Health New Covenant Steering Committee

Bishop Joseph M. Sullivan, Chair Sr. Dale McDonald Jane Stenson Director of Public Director, Community Services Arnold Andrews Policy National Catholic Catholic Charities USA Executive Director Educational Association Catholic Charities, Msgr. John Strynkowski Diocese of St. Petersburg Sr. Mary Mollison, CSA Executive Director, Secretariat for Auxiliary Bishop of Brooklyn Agnesian Healthcare Doctrine & Pastoral Practices USCCB Jack Burgis Patrick O’Donnell Petaluma, CA Wichita, KS Julie Trocchio Director, Long-Term Care Kathleen Donnellan Rev. Robert Silva Catholic Health Association Executive Director President Catholic Charities National Federation Communication consultant Archdiocese of Cincinnati of Priests’ Councils Lisa Caplan 2 St. Louis, MO Sr. Doris Gottemoeller Rev. Robert J. Vitillo Sr VP, Mission/Values Integration Executive Director Stoney Breyer Catholic Healthcare Partners Catholic Campaign for Links Touchwood, Inc. Human Development Michael James Assistant Executive Director Irene Ward Assoc. of Catholic Colleges Chief of Operations and Universities Catholic Community Services of Western Washington Sr. Judith Ann Karam, CSA President/CEO Staff and meeting facilitator Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine Roger Butler (lead staff) Health System Executive Director CCHC Rev. Msgr. Ralph Kuehner Office of Social Concerns Cathy Sullivan Clark (facilitator) Archdiocese of Washington Vice President Jennings Ryan & Kolb James J. McCormack Coordinator Sr. Patricia Talone, RSM, PhD Health Care Network Senior Director, Ethics Diocese of Albany Catholic Health Association Acknowledgements

This book is the result of the We are most grateful to the faith and good work of many people. Saint Ann Foundation for funding The starting point for the development of this document Ministering Together: A Step-by- as well as other communication Step Guide for Collaboration with tools for New Covenant. Catholic and Other Community We are grateful, too, to Partners was Ministering Together: Sr. Judith Ann Karam and her A Shared Vision for Caring and New Covenant Models and Healing Ministries, developed by Examples task force for assembling the New Covenant Steering the comprehensive list of ministry Committee in 2000 under the collaborations that appear in auspices of the National Coalition the appendix. on Catholic Health Care Ministry. The gifted writer for this The steps described for project was Marie Wood, who collaboration are based on lessons took hundreds of stories and 3 learned from a national study of translated them into the useful collaborations between Catholic guidelines you will find within Charities and Catholic health these pages. Thanks, too, to the care. That study was conducted staff who coordinated this and for Catholic Charities USA and other New Covenant efforts: the Catholic Health Association Roger Butler, Jane Stenson, by Health Systems Research, Inc. and Julie Trocchio. Members of the 2003 New Covenant But most important of all, steering committee added their we are grateful to all the partners varied experiences to bring in in ministry collaborations reflected perspectives beyond social services in this document. To them, it was and health care to include education, not enough to serve. They also housing, economic development, gave their time and expertise so and service organizations. that others could learn to serve better by ministering together. Step 1: Get Ready

Collaboration is one of the Be Clear About the “Why” best ways to make the Catholic of Collaboration mission concrete and the Collaborating is about Inspired by the New Covenant values apparent. the sharing of responsibil- vision of collaboration, ministry Working collaboratively demon- partnerships throughout the ities, resources, and risks strates good business in action. nation have discovered the to achieve a common Catholic partners define this as potential for a stronger mission goal; it is coming “using all available resources as by working together: together as equal thoughtfully, prudently, and partners to find solutions Collaboration results in better effectively as possible.” access to more services for to shared problems. Partners in collaboration say more clients. working alone often isn’t enough Catholic partners collaborate because the needs of real people because their organizations or living in real communities are not agencies cannot deal with the categorical. For example, homeless- 4 scope and complexity of com- ness affects health status, and munity problems by themselves. health status affects employability. Catholic partners realize If the organizations and agencies that they are more likely to providing housing, health services, make lasting changes in their and job training are not working communities if they speak and together, how can they expect to act together. meet the complex, interactive needs of homeless people? If they Collaborating agencies have are not speaking with one voice, demonstrated that collaboration what are the chances they will be is a win-win situation for able to successfully advocate both organizations and their changes that will improve the communities. lives of the homeless? Working collaboratively demonstrates faith in action. Understand Each Other’s Cultures cultural norms is not understood Failure to recognize and (Including How They Do Business) and respected by each of the other deal with the cultural In the beginning of an effort partners, problems can occur. and organizational differ- between Catholic Charities and Take the following steps to help ences between partners the Catholic Health Centers in further the understanding of each can become a significant Cleveland, OH, participants other’s culture: roadblock that could came to the table often carrying Create opportunities to get to threaten the future of “uncharitable perspectives of know one another. Visit the the collaborative. each other and perhaps assuming place where your partners work malevolent intentions on the and provide services. part of the other participants.” However, as they came to know Review your potential partners’ “Collaboration efforts will and trust each other through annual reports and newsletters. maximize our resources the taking of small, manageable Attend annual meetings and and extend our response risks, “gradually mutual fundraisers to sample firsthand to the people and commu- appreciation, respect, and trust the culture of your partners. 5 nities we serve. Achieving replaced skepticism.” Understand how your counter- this vision, for the sake of Organizational culture is part conducts business. Early the Gospel and for those the context from which members on, learn how each organization to whom we minister, will of an organization view their carries out its mission. require us as individuals role in the community. It also Learn the other organizations’ and organizations to think, determines how people work processes for sharing informa- plan, and act differently. It within the organization. Different tion, making commitments, will undoubtedly demand organizations carry on their work arriving at and implementing that we creatively address in ways that are comfortable decisions, and maintaining for them and conform to the the cultures and mindsets accountability. requirements of their organization. that could easily keep us If each of the partner organization’s in our silos and limit the potential for collaboration. But this is the nature of a vision—to call us beyond where we are to a new future.”

Ministering Together: A Shared Vision for Caring and Healing Ministries Learn About Your Partner Schedule monthly meetings Participants in the Community and use other opportunities to Health Enrichment Project of regularly come together. Orange County, CA, were Start and stay focused on what surprised to discover they had a community residents need lot to learn about each other in the versus what the providers assume “Early on, be sure you beginning of their collaboration; the community needs. are all speaking the even though potential partners same language.” shared the same mission and values Use each others’ strengths by getting to know and understand system, significant differences in Collaborative Partner, Albany, NY institutional and organizational exactly what the other organiza- cultures still existed. tions and agencies do. To ensure success when starting Recognize and value your own work with potential collaborative resources and yourselves first partners, actively listen to their before others can see and value 6 point of view. Be sure you agree on who you are and what you do. the meaning of the collaboration Do not gloss over differences right in the beginning. Focus on between partners with platitudes what people are saying and do not such as “We all share the filter their words through a stream same mission.” Rather, recog- of preconceived ideas and prior nize, articulate, and address experience. As a hospital CEO in these differences. California said, “It is important to Finally, realize that no one step outside our personal experi- group, agency, or organization ence and try to understand things totally owns the solution from the perspectives of others.” to problems any more than Others offered these ideas: they own the problems. Each partner has to take a risk Include a diverse group of and let the others “in” to their partners at your table, including turf and to their individual styles representatives from other-than- of thinking, talking, and acting. Catholic organizations. Acknowledge the Challenges of of California convened a statewide Ministry Partnership meeting during which members New Covenant is a commit- In addition to the economic of Catholic Charities, hospitals, ment to strengthening and societal challenges facing each and dioceses were challenged to and promoting the Catholic of the church’s ministries, organiza- find ways to work together. After caring and healing tions ministering together face this meeting, the Orange County ministries. It urges Catholic internal challenges as well. Be partners came together and health care, social services, realistic and explicit about these recognized that each organization education, housing, dio- challenges, including: possessed skills, relationships, ceses, parishes, and other Cultural differences and the experiences, and resources that ministries concerned about traditional separation among were unique, allowing each the welfare of persons, ministries of caring and healing. to make its own special contribu- tions. As a result, the partners families, and communities Fears that collaboration were able to go from “I will” to to work together to bring will diminish the distinctive “we will,” knowing they could the healing presence of identities and contributions 7 accomplish more acting collectively Jesus Christ. of individual ministries. than they ever could individually. Current structures that inhibit These challenges can also collaboration. be averted with clear leadership Diverse interpretations of commitment. In the Tampa Bay, what is meant by the “healing FL, area, commitment to the ministry of the church.” New Covenant ideal of an active Increasing demands on ministry Catholic community ministry is leaders of all types, in particular indisputable. This commitment on parish leaders, at a time when helps the partners transcend the other church ministries want the competitive and territorial to establish closer relationships. barriers that often limit the success of collaborative projects. The Competition among Catholic commitment to ministry by health and human services religious and secular leaders, providers. program directors, and direct Putting such issues “on the service staff allows partners to table” can make a difference. put aside personal ambition and As part of the New Covenant embrace the larger mission. initiative, the Catholic bishops Step 2: Have A Plan

Create a Common Vision share with your partners. This Because collaboration often should include an open and means different things to different ongoing dialogue. Partnering between people, developing a common Be clear about expectations two compatible yet vision becomes important in the and goals—you will later be different organizations beginning. This vision should also evaluated on whether you met requires creating a be reviewed regularly. them. Specific goals of the palpable sense of what When the National Catholic collaboration can include is important to both Collaborative Refugee Network measuring numbers—such as partners and then started three years ago, its part- numbers of clients, referrals, finding common ground ners—the Catholic Health services, housing units, and on which to build a Association, Catholic Charities meals serviced—cost savings, lasting relationship. USA, and the U.S. Conference and health and quality of life. of Catholic Bishops’ Office of Migration and Refugee Services— State your objectives in writing. 8 created a common mission state- A good format for this is a vision “The Catholic vision of statement that tells everyone ment detailing what they hoped to caring for our neighbors where you are going. A vision accomplish together. Its guidelines calls us to treat illness for establishing future sites include statement should include a description of what you will with more than medi- requiring project participants to cine, homelessness develop and share a statement accomplish, where and for whom you will achieve your with more than shelter, of purpose for the project as well poverty with more than as developing and sharing clear vision, an account of the scope just a handout. Our goals and strategies for the year. of the work, a statement of vision calls us to bring Steps to take to foster a unique purpose, and clarity. common vision: Stay focused on the common about healing–to seek vision. health and wholeness of Use an explicit process to body, mind, and spirit identify common values you for individuals, families, and communities–to carry on Jesus’ mission of love.”

Fr. J. Bryan Hehir, President, Catholic Charities USA Fr. Michael D. Place STD, President and Chief Executive Officer, CHA Identify and cultivate champions Develop relationships with the of the project. media. Talk to members of the For example: media about the issues the Engage others by involving collaborative is addressing and As the collaboratives staff at all levels in the shaping explain why they are important launch initiatives and of the collaboration, making it to the health and well-being results, it is important truly theirs. of the entire city or county. that the community, Include the community in the Remember that letting others policy-makers, funders, process, such as community know about the collaborative— and the world know this. foundations, the Catholic including its goals and community, local government, successes—buys visibility, and United Way organizations. credibility, political influence, and a whole array of resources, Work with the communications including new partners. and marketing staff of partner organizations and develop a 9 communications and marketing strategy for the collaborative. Use these experts to help all the partners and stakeholders become more media savvy. Decide How to Start Other groups take on a well- Talking about collaboration defined problem. For example, a is easy; working collaboratively collaboration in Pittsburgh began is a different story. Getting in response to a large influx of started means putting aside past young refugees who were more experiences and leaping into the likely to use the emergency room Getting started unknown in the belief that working for medical care unless they were may be the hardest collaboratively can result in better provided with special assistance. outcomes for our communities. step because it is The process will begin when A Suggested Agenda for the the first step. at least one person takes action to First Meeting bring others together. It may be Each partner describes and the bishop, the hospital CEO, or explains to the other: the director of the local Catholic Here is what we do and whom Charities’ agency. It may be a leader 10 we serve. in another church ministry such as These are some of our strengths. housing or education. What is needed is an individual or a group These are our current issues. of individuals with a commitment These are what we see as unmet to work collaboratively and the community needs. ability to inspire others to consider What could we accomplish the same commitment. These are together that we can’t people who are able to convey the accomplish alone? belief, as phrased by a Cleveland ministry leader, that “if we leap, These are some of the things the net will appear.” I would consider contributing Some collaborative relationships that could add value to a start by tackling a specific aspect collaboration effort. of a problem. In Phoenix, AZ, the This is what my organiz- Catholic organizations worked ation needs to receive from together to lobby for an increase collaboration. in the Children’s Health Insurance This is what I need to remain Program income eligibility criteria. at the table. Decide What to Do Sometimes existing systems join There are many different ways forces to address a community’s Sustaining collaboration to decide what to do when starting needs in a comprehensive way. over the long haul a collaborative project: In Cleveland, community requires both partners In Tampa/St. Petersburg, the problems were seen as complex to plan ahead and to Catholic Charities/Catholic and potentially overwhelming. plan together. hospital partners routinely use Therefore, a broad-based focus groups when beginning strategy was formed to develop a project. This enables them to comprehensive services through “Our shared vision find out what issues are impor- the collaboration efforts of the commits us to a future tant to community residents. Catholic Charities Health and Human Services, the Sisters of encompassing new A hospital in Green Bay, Charity of St. Augustine Health forms of ministry that WI, also used focus groups to System (CSAHS), and the CSA transcend traditional evaluate how well it cared for Health System’s partnership hos- boundaries, giving faith- people at the end of their lives; 11 pitals in Cleveland. They agreed ful Gospel witness. Such they are now working with to jointly support the Inter- new forms will support Catholic Charities agencies Organizational Development innovative approaches to address issues identified Department with its own staff by the community. to enhancing health and of three, which was responsible well-being–approaches Other groups, including the for fostering collaboration efforts that are more holistic San Jose Mission in Florida, between the partners and within and reach beyond both addressed the “What should we the community. They also spon- organizational bound- do first?” question by conducting sored a symposium—Blazing aries and facility walls.” an “assets and needs” assessment Trails—which is now held semi- of the community. The assess- annually, forming around one Ministering Together: ment findings helped them A Shared Vision for Caring issue and developing an action and Healing Ministries determine where they needed plan each time it meets. to focus their attention. Provide Sufficient Resources TANF funds, and private Time is money, and of Staff, Money, and Time organizations, such as the there is never enough United Way and the March of either. Staff—A key lesson for a of Dimes. In Cleveland, a successful collaboration is the small grant from a Catholic importance of staff. Early and foundation got partners started. “We have two great ongoing involvement of staff at Catholic foundations tied to resources…professional many levels helps to keep the religious orders can also be a competence translated collaboration on track. The key source of support. into compassionate designation of individuals to Time—Collaboration requires care…Competence in keep the collaborative vision in time, and much of this is multiple ministries— front of everyone will eliminate off-the-books time or time education, social the danger of the group lapsing people didn’t think they had. service, health care— into old, categorical, hierarchical The reasons people are willing ways of doing business. In is the vehicle through to give of themselves are varied. 12 some cases two organizations which Catholic social Sometimes it is a natural will designate full-time outgrowth of their faith. The vision takes concrete inter-organization staff, such shape in the lives of overarching reason for putting as Catholic Charities of unpaid effort into collaboration: people throughout Cleveland, which included society. Competence the potential for benefit to the a staff of three individuals individual, the organization, is the means by which responsible for the collaboration; the church, and the community. compassionate care is in other instances, a person from Volunteering tends to be given effective meaning one of the partners is designated successful when there is a in the lives who are collaboration coordinator, specific task and a set time vulnerable, in need, accountable to all the partners. frame. Other responses to why or in pain.” Money—Funding agencies, people devote scarce time to when looking to fund projects, working together have included Fr. J. Bryan Hehir President, Catholic Charities USA often like collaboration. The sentiments such as, “I want to variety of funding sources tapped make things happen,” “It is a by different collaborations is chance to make a difference,” striking. They can include “Something must be done now,” diocesan and parish funds, and “We will get more done government funds, county and this way.” state categorical program funds, Decide What Structure system guided by community Will Work for You residents and others involved in Talking about collabora- Create a structure that responds the community. The CHEC tion is easy; working to community needs and available Advisory Council was formed collaboratively is a resources. For example: with representatives from 12 different story. The bishop of Wichita, KS, other agencies, including a addressed the needs of a committee of representatives growing Hispanic population from the target neighborhoods, “We commit ourselves and a struggling local economy charged with empowering to transform our current by strengthening collaboration residents to improve their health relationships, structures, and that of their families. among the Catholic health, and services and to social services, and education The partners of the Albany create a stronger, unified systems. He convened a task Diocesan Community Health voice for justice in force that includes representa- Alliance (DCHA)—Catholic order to enhance the tives from each of the partner Charities agencies, Catholic 13 health and well-being organizations who identify health care providers, Catholic of individuals, families, unmet community needs and parishes, and Catholic schools in create strategies to address those the diocese—work together in a and communities.” needs. The task force develops variety of organizational configu- Ministering Together: projects under its own auspices rations determined by the nature A Shared Vision for Caring and helps other collaborative of an initiative and its location. and Healing Ministries efforts that draw on the special Its work is structured by a ministries of the various nine-member steering committee members. The task force meets composed of representatives of regularly every four to six weeks. the different Catholic ministries. New Covenant acted as a The committee meets quarterly motivator for Catholic bishops to discuss current projects and in Orange County, CA, who future initiatives, and it assigns challenged members of Catholic project plans to different groups Charities, hospitals, and dioceses within the Alliance for detailed to find ways to work together. planning and implementation. The result: the Community DCHA hired a coordinator Health Enrichment whose role is to prepare Collaborative (CHEC), whose agendas, chair meetings, goal is to create a neighborhood- and prepare the minutes based health and social service of collaboration meetings. Step 3: Make It Work

Involve the Bishop Set the tone for collaboration. In Wichita, the bishop’s Leaders from the most Encourage collaboration as part vision and his outgoing, successful collaborations have of the New Covenant initiative. engaging personality described the important role brought the partners a bishop can play in starting In subsequent meetings the together, and the and sustaining a collaboration. bishop can: authority granted to the In Wichita, “The success of Serve as the cheerleader for the bishop, coupled with the collaboration demonstrates group by regularly reminding respect for him, keeps the importance of the active partners what it is that brings the partners at the table. involvement of the bishop in them together. promoting and sustaining Provide continuity by Greater Than the Parts: effective collaboration.” arranging for his successor to A Collaboration Handbook for Catholic Charities and Health As an integral part of a new keep collaboration going. collaboration, a bishop can, in Care Organizations Work with the partners to the first meeting: establish objectives of the 14 Bring Catholic Charities collaboration, including agencies, health care providers, general numbers such as clients, parishes, housing programs, referrals, services, housing units, schools, other ministries, and the and meals served; cost savings; larger community together to and improving health and discuss a collaboration. quality of life for clients. Remember That Meetings Matter Continue to participate in The first meetings of the regularly scheduled meetings. collaboration set the tone and Monthly meetings and other Relationships have direction of the collaboration. opportunities to regularly come been strengthened During early meetings each partner together will provide forums as a result of meeting explains to the others what it is for partners to nurture their regularly every four they hope to accomplish together, relationships and build trust. to six weeks. each partner’s strengths and Tolerate “messiness.” Recognize weaknesses, and what it is that that meetings in a collaborative will keep the collaboration going. don’t usually proceed as “We believe that caring As meetings progress, partici- smoothly as meetings held and healing ministries pants will enjoy the opportunity within an individual agency. are constitutive ele- to meet many people who share Progress in meetings made up ments of the life of the their commitments. To ensure of partners from different organ- church…We believe continued success: 15 izations may not be as rapid and that greater collabora- Make meetings fun. Celebrate isn’t achieved in a predictable, tion among the church’s anniversaries and other successes. linear progression. If there are human services, health transitions in leadership, you Share meals together and visit care services, and may have to recognize that it each other’s sites. parishes requires the will take a while until meetings run as smoothly as before. active support and leadership of the diocesan bishop and diocesan structures… We believe that creat- ing a new ‘we’ and using our resources together is not only important to the church, but is a gift to society at large as well.”

Ministering Together: A Shared Vision for Caring and Healing Ministries Adopt Characteristics of Acknowledge problems early Successful Collaborations in the process. Working in Partners view this Collaborative partners relate partnership can be difficult. open-mindedness, experiences as varied as the Successful management of faith in the collaborative partners and projects themselves. problems results from the process, and a shared However, several overarching willingness of the leadership Catholic mission as lessons emerged as essential for of each organization to speak essential for success. a successful collaboration: openly and candidly about Create synergy around the their concerns. collaborative project. Arrange Be clear about expectations and “[Our shared vision] for representatives of each of abilities. Collaborative partners has the potential of the partner organizations to need to be up-front about what serve on the governance or they can and cannot do as well transforming our advisory boards of the other as their differing opinions. ministries, creating partner organizations. Ideas new synergies that will 16 Include the bishop, whose enhance the well-being generated at board meetings active involvement facilitates of those we serve, and the sharing of information collaboration. and participation in discussions and making our service about these ideas strengthen View collaboration as an to the Gospel more ongoing process in which you relationships and bring synergy authentic and more are continually learning. to the process. effective.”

Ministering Together: A Shared Vision for Caring and Healing Ministries Set a Good Pace and Go Start small with a collaborative Don’t take too big a for Early Wins project that has a low risk bite. You must have Trying to do too much too of failure. staying power while quickly can result in failure and Do not be impatient. Success in relationships mature. disenchantment with collaboration one area generates confidence in as an approach to addressing the ability of partners to work community problems. To set a together and encourages others “If the agenda is too good pace from the beginning: to come aboard. broad or the outcomes Identify and focus on do-able Remember that partners need to too unfocused, the right projects with clearly identified folks won’t stay with the experience meaningful success as objectives. Setting a good pace soon as possible. Success breeds collaboration.” may mean tackling a specific success and enthusiasm and aspect of a large problem. Long-Term Care Administrator, over time builds trust for larger Pittsburgh, PA collaborative projects. This is why most partnerships choose 17 to “start small.” Set a Big Table Knights of Columbus, Although who comes to the the Rosary Society, and the No one group, agency, or table is often determined by a Knights of Malta) organization totally owns common Catholic mission, it is Other nonprofit organizations, the solution to problems important at the outset to include government agencies, and other any more than they own all those who share some aspect religiously affiliated groups also can the problems. of the mission. Setting a big table be important partners. A new clinic results in the coming together built in Miami to help serve the of a diverse group of partners, uninsured represents a collaboration “As the New Covenant including representatives of between Mercy Hospital, Catholic Steering Committee… other-than-Catholic organizations. Charities, the Knights of Malta, we look forward to By always asking and acting on students in local schools, private discovering local the question, “Who else needs to vendors and contractors, the leaders, bishops, pastors, be here?” you help to strengthen American Cancer Society, and religious, and laity the ability to collaborate. Other 18 the Robert Wood Johnson and potential partners can include: who are interested in Deering Foundations. integrating the ministries The diocese Sometimes local government of the church so that it agencies can provide the funds Parishes will become a vital com- for special programs. A unique Catholic schools collaboration between the city of munion of disciples in Catholic colleges and Phoenix’s prosecutor’s office and creating communities of universities Phoenix Catholic Social Services compassion and justice.”

Catholic-sponsored housing is responsible for a very successful Bishop Joseph M. Sullivan, prostitution diversion program. Religious orders Chair, New Covenant Steering In Montgomery County, MD, Committee Local offices of the Catholic the county is setting up a parish Campaign for Human nursing program in a Catholic Development Charities office. The county pays Catholic women’s organizations the staff person who works with Catholic volunteer organizations congregational health ministers, (e.g., St. Vincent DePaul, many of whom are not Catholic. In Chattanooga, TN, the Remember to be sensitive to Catholic hospital financially participant comfort zones, Collaboratives are supports a parish nurse who is especially when involving fragile in their early housed in facilities owned by community members. days and need nurturing. the Baptist Church. In La Crosse, Consistently conducting WI, the Catholic bishop brought meetings in the same location, together all the parish nursing such as a hospital board room, “Our shared vision calls programs in the community, may give the impression that us, as church, to work including those sponsored by the one organization is “in charge” more collaboratively Lutheran Church, to explore how of the collaborative. with other…faith-based they could work together. And Conduct meetings on a regular, Catholic Charities organizations organizations and values- predictable schedule so partners compatible community often pool their talents with other can easily “find a place” on agencies to enhance the faith organizations when resettling their calendars. refugees. One such example: health and well-being of 19 Do not waste time! Tight, action- Catholic Charities of Joliet, IL, individuals, families, and oriented agendas with concrete which works with New Hope communities. Collaboration objectives make participants feel Connection, a group of Catholic both within and outside their time is well spent. and Protestant churches and of the church is not an the local Islamic foundation, Consider establishing ground ‘either/or,’ but rather a to adopt families. rules. They could include starting ‘both/and.’” and ending meetings promptly, Engage in Good Meeting Etiquette respectfully listening to and Ministering Together: Keeping partners involved and disagreeing with others in the A Shared Vision for Caring and Healing Ministries interested in the collaboration group, and expecting regular process requires good meeting attendance. etiquette. Some suggestions from Finally, remember to respect Catholic partners: each partner and recognize Be considerate when selecting that each organization possesses a meeting location and make it skills, relationships, experiences, easily accessible. and resources that are unique. Be sure the meeting location Allow each partner to make its offers convenient parking and own special contribution to the handicap accessibility and can overall approach needed to effec- be reached by mass transit. tively address community issues. Step 4: Negotiate Roadblocks

Acknowledge and Manage the box for funders (do not just Turf Issues round up the usual participants); Turf is always an issue when look to the full range of working with others. Arnold organizations committed to It is important to recognize Andrews, Executive Director of Catholic ministry for funding, that roadblocks are Catholic Charities of St. Petersburg, including the Knights of inevitable and to prepare FL, recalls a previous job where he Columbus, St. Vincent DePaul, for their appearance. worked in a drug abuse treatment Catholic schools and universities, agency for the government that and the foundations of religious would compete with others for orders; and remember that “Our shared history pro- dollars. “Collaboration is a different parishes can provide both human vides the inspiration and paradigm,” he says, “a more and financial capital for projects. wisdom we will need if we Christian way of looking at things Issue–Not wanting to give up are to address successfully and supporting each other’s work.” responsibility for previous issues. the challenges that face us It is reassuring to bear in mind that Solution–As part of a collabora- 20 in the new century…For once a collaborative has triumphed tion, view community issues as 275 years, the ministries of over one roadblock, the partners problems every partner holds in education, social services, have learned valuable skills that common. This means sharing and health care have will help them over the other resources, responsibilities, and shared common origins bumps in the road. Here are some risks to develop solutions. The concerns involving turf and ways and ecclesial space. In fact, collaborative can then address to circumvent them: one could surmise that issues in a noncompetitive, the Ursuline Sisters did Issue–Fear of losing independence. solution-oriented environment. not plan on pursuing three Solution–Pay careful attention to Some leaders have looked to distinct ministries, but the uniqueness and importance our mutual heritage as a source of of each partner. Be sensitive to rather saw themselves inspiration when navigating turf organizational boundaries. Use simply doing ‘what needed issues and similar obstacles to memoranda of understanding, to be done.’ The forces of collaboration. The Ursuline Sisters share project leadership, and cost of New Orleans are considered to history brought about out in-kind contributions. today’s sharp demarcation be the founders of Catholic health Issue–Competition for funders. between the ministries.” care and social services, as well as Solution–Concern about the education, starting 275 years Fr. Michael D. Place, STD availability of funding can be ago. At times, a reminder of this President and Chief Executive Officer a major roadblock. Decide to more unified history can help key Catholic Health Association start small to build up funding participants recall their original confidence; make fund purpose and the advantages to be development every partner’s gained through collaboration. responsibility; think outside Manage Transitions in the collaboration. When Transitions, including staff a hospital hierarchy is in turnover, new partners, and transition, community changes in staff and leadership outreach staff, volunteer can affect a collaborative’s ability service coordinators, and health to go forward. Such was the case mission staff are some of the Turnover may actually be in Phoenix, where Catholic social possible managers who can an opportunity disguised services had been stymied in efforts sustain collaborative projects. as a challenge. to form a collaboration with a local Create relationships between hospital to address the medical similar organizational units in needs of immigrants because of each organization. If people three recent turnovers of the at lower levels of the partner hospital’s executive staff. On the organizations, not just the other hand, “new” people may executive level, communicate, bring skills and expectations to 21 this will strengthen the capacity the group that will strengthen of the collaborative and help its work. Some suggestions for keep things going in times managing transitions: of transition. Create a welcoming atmosphere Establish a process to keep for newcomers. Welcoming a all partners up to date on new leader to the collaboration changes in organizations, and offering to share history or including services, eligibility provide introductions plant seeds criteria, access information, of collaboration that will bloom “and contact information. once the transition is over. Periodic brown-bag lunches Cultivate participation in the or other in-service information- collaboration throughout the sharing opportunities are creative organization so the loss of one ways around this roadblock. leader does not create a void Manage Conflict in a leadership training session Recognize that conflict can to help everyone learn how to be inevitable—everyone has the discuss and make decisions collabo- individual organization’s agenda ratively rather than unilaterally “Deal with fear of and responsibilities to attend to by organization. Collaboration is conflict; don’t allow and also must deal with the larger a different way of doing business folks to run away and cross-agency agenda of the and requires leadership skills that from it. Require that collaborative, all while managing are different from those used in they stay, talk, and everything within the context of more traditional, hierarchical get past it.” a dynamic community. organizational structures. Partners in the Orange The CHEC partners and other Collaborative Partner, County CHEC decided to participants in the national study Cleveland, OH minimize conflict from the start learned two other pointers: by developing and agreeing to a When negotiating particularly formal memorandum of under- 22 difficult items, work through the standing that carefully described conflict gradually over the course the responsibilities of each partner of several meetings. in the collaboration effort. The CHEC partners and advisory Do not let conflict fester—get council members also participated it out in the open in a spirit of fellowship and deal with it. Step 5: Sustain and Grow

Use Each Other’s Strengths rating with Catholic Charities and A prerequisite to using each to be aware of specific services or What does it take other’s strengths is getting to programs offered by Catholic to sustain and grow know and understand exactly Charities. This suggests that there collaborations? what it is that other organizations is unmet potential for collaboration Persistence, creativity, and agencies do. Once potential between these partners. Even and commitment to partners become knowledgeable organizations and agencies cur- the Catholic mission. about the work of other organiza- rently engaged in some collabora- tions, they are in a position to tive activities may not be fully recognize, value, and build on aware of other areas where “Collaboration rests on these strengths. collaboration could be beneficial. the foundation of the The nation’s largest nonprofit Bishops, Catholic Charities human person as a social Catholic housing organization— agencies, Catholic health care being–a member of an the Mercy Housing Strategic organizations, schools, parishes, Health Care Partnership— and other ministries may consider assembly, a church that 23 sees itself as a mystical originated when the 11 religious developing strategies to increase body in which all the communities who sponsor Mercy awareness and knowledge among Housing joined forces with seven potential Catholic partners by parts have a role to play, national Catholic health systems to taking the following steps: in which each is essential increase the supply of affordable to the health of the Organize a series of informal housing. Mercy Housing provided meetings to help introduce whole. No one left out. the housing construction and The church is inclusive and develop professional maintenance expertise while the relationships between the and seeks the active health care partners contributed administrators of potential participation of all.” the financial resources. Together partner organizations. they have greatly increased the Bishop Joseph M. Sullivan Hold separate meetings for the number of affordable housing Chair, New Covenant Steering direct service staff of potential Committee units available to the poor in partner organizations. their communities. In many places, collaboration Conduct a structured forum or could be enhanced if potential conference for the Catholic partners were more than “generally” partners to share information aware of each other. Long-term about their organization or care facilities seem to be less likely agency and collectively explore than hospitals to be both collabo- areas for potential collaboration. Revisit Mission and Commitment Charities agencies, housing In Wichita, the Bishop’s programs, and other caring Promoting the Catholic Community Task Force continues ministries know that their clients values of social justice, to keep its commitment to the often require solutions to problems equity, and advocacy for Catholic mission by continually that are physical, emotional, the poor and disadvan- gathering information about and spiritual. taged is central to current and emerging needs in Sustaining and growing increasing the visibility the community. collaboration means revisiting your of Catholic ideals in our Hospital partners in communi- mission and commitment. Some secular society. ties as diverse as Youngstown, OH, ways to accomplish this include: and St. Petersburg recognize that Conducting annual joint retreats in today’s competitive marketplace, with a focus on mission and “Together, the Catholic it is the promotion of the core commitment. values of social justice, equity, health ministry and and advocacy for the poor and Engaging with leaders, staff, Catholic Charities could 24 disadvantaged that distinguishes or boards on the foundational make a real world and mission of the caring and Catholic health care from other distinctively Catholic healing ministries. health care. Similarly, Catholic contribution to the concept of ‘healthier communities’–one which benefits greatly the persons and commu- nities we are committed to serve.”

Profile of a Community Partner, 1996 Make Collaboration Yours, Mine, also provide an opportunity for and Ours community members to actively Viewing community To sustain and deepen a practice collaboration. problems as problems you successful collaboration means Institutionalize the partnership hold in common and then taking steps to consolidate support by integrating a focus on sharing resources, respon- to keep the momentum going and collaboration into the mission growing into the future. The most sibilities, and risks to statement and/or the strategic frequently suggested strategies for develop solutions is the plan of the organization and sustaining collaboration focus on essence of collaboration. its performance standards for institutionalizing collaboration. leadership staff. A focus on This means “a collaborative way collaboration may also be of thinking and acting is woven included in orientation and “Health care, human into the fiber of how Catholic training sessions for employees. services, and local partners and their colleagues Direct service staff are more parishes can respond view and address community likely to pursue collaborative health and social services problems 25 better to individuals and solutions to problems if their and solutions.” communities by creating organizations clearly value Some strategies that Catholic and reward this approach. a new “we”—bound collaborations have used to together by a common nurture this approach: Speak with a single voice. vision, values, and Remember that collaboration, by Establish a staff position. The language, and using our definition, means no one institu- person in this position must be resources in creative and tion dominates the process. seen as a trustworthy support of collaborative ways.” all the partners and a champion Engage in advocacy. See the next section for more on this. Ministering Together: of collaboration. A Shared Vision for Caring Hold regular community Work together to identify and and Healing Ministries meetings. In Cleveland, a mobilize resources to support semiannual Blazing Trails collaboration efforts. This conference is held that involves nurtures noncompetitive rela- the community in discussions tionships between the partners about collaboration successes and strengthens their ability and new areas to explore. to be creative in searching out Forums such as this keep the and weaving together funding collaboration philosophy and opportunities. approach continually visible and Engage in Advocacy and called for fundamental social “Action on behalf of justice Many collaboratives note that change. So, too, can ministries speaking with one voice with either of the Catholic Church, with and participation in the local or state government officials their combined voice of experience transformation of the significantly increases the impact of and compassion. world fully appears to their view on policies that affect Leaders interested in pursuing us as a constitutive the poor and disadvantaged. collaboration may want to consider dimension of the Gospel, For the most part, however, this joint efforts around Medicaid or in other words, of is an area of untapped potential. funding and other federal/state the church’s mission Public policy advocacy can and programs for low-income popula- for the redemption of should be a strong component of tions. Other church ministries and the human race and its the Catholic mission. Building the community organizations could be liberation from every Kingdom requires responding to enlisted. National advocacy oppressive situation.” the spiritual needs of persons while efforts—such as Children’s Health attending in an integrated way to Matters—can also be important 1971 Synod of Bishops 26 their physical and social needs. vehicles for joint grassroots action Jesus not only healed the sick, he at the local level. also challenged unjust structures

“Advocacy with and on behalf of those who are poor, marginalized, and vulnerable is not optional. It is at the core of what we are about. This should not be surprising; Jesus’ mission was, after all, transformative. He cared for and healed individuals, but also demanded a change in those conditions which brought them harm. Working to bring about God’s reign is ultimately transformative work. Our shared vision commits us to a future in which leaders in caring and healing ministries, along with those we serve and other partners, work prophetically to transform structures of society in order to provide access and opportuni- ties to those who are voiceless, powerless, and unable to participate fully in society.”

Ministering Together: A Shared Vision for Caring and Healing Ministries Plan, Plan, Plan and emerging issues and propose Sustaining collaboration projects to address those issues. The success of future over the long haul requires the Washington state’s St. Joseph partners to plan ahead and to Hospital’s Community Outreach collaboration is deter- plan together. This can best be department works to maintain mined by planning that accomplished by: an ongoing assessment of the is done today. Involving all the partners— community’s health needs and planning in a vacuum can result resources. Outreach activities in competition around agendas involve the development of collab- “Our shared vision com- and resources. orative responses to community needs, with particular attention mits us to collaborative Allowing representatives of part- to primary prevention programs planning of innovative ner organizations to participate for children. ways to address the in their counterparts’ strategic needs of the communities planning processes. This will Keep the Momentum Going served…We believe that 27 allow for the identification and Sustaining and growing by ministering together, promotion of common goals collaboration means keeping up all the caring and healing and outcomes. the momentum you’ve established. ministries will not only Fitting collaboration into the Some ways to accomplish this: be better stewards of their organizations’ strategic plans. Conduct annual joint retreats resources but will address Establishing a structured, Participate in shared trainings real needs more holisti- ongoing process for planning. cally and effectively. or workshops For the DCHA, what works is Organize recognition Ministering Together: a nine-member steering committee events/award dinners A Shared Vision for Healing that formulates its future work. and Caring Ministries Every two years, five to eight Foster ongoing press coverage top executives from each of the Mobilize volunteers collaborative partners come Stay open to new ideas Promoting Catholic together in an all-day management Stay focused on the Catholic social teaching leadership forum to discuss current through the broad mission Catholic ministry requires the ongoing, visible collaboration of all partners. Step 6: Assess and Celebrate Results Evaluate Objectives Met Measure success by using costs, It is essential that partners A community can particularly cost savings. For obtain and allocate resources for example, examine how the measure its own health some level of evaluation of the implementation of an effective by the health of its collaborative. The need to do this community-wide information collaboratives. is two-fold: First, evaluation of and referral system reduces collaboration efforts provides the inappropriate use of hospital information Catholic partners need emergency departments and “As we move forward in to offer the most effective, efficient associated costs. implementing our shared services to their community. Measure success by measuring vision, we should seize Second, an evaluation documents health and quality of life, using every opportunity to the results that can be obtained outcomes such as successful ensure that the church’s through collaboration. In this way management of chronic health caring, healing, and collaborative partners can evaluate conditions for particular popula- if their initial objectives were met. educational activities tions groups or mobility of the 28 are integrated for the Each of the sites involved elderly. This truly spotlights the well-being of individuals in the National Catholic purpose of collaboration. Collaborative Refugee Network and communities.” However, it is challenging in documents accomplishments and that it requires the identification Ministering Together: challenges on a monthly basis of measurement indicators for A Shared Vision for Healing and shares them quarterly with and Caring Ministries complex concepts such as com- all other participating sites. In prehensive services, a seamless addition, local sites follow guide- system, and continuity of care. lines and use a progress evaluation Different partners may have tool to ensure goals are met. different perspectives on what to Experience from the national measure, but it is more important study indicates there are different to agree on ways to measure and ways to measure the outcomes of evaluate what the collaborative has collaboration: done. A process for evaluation Measure success in terms of should be built into the overall numbers, such as numbers of planning process. The partner clients, referrals, services, hous- organizations can use current ing units, and meals served. If evaluation staff to assist evaluation. carefully crafted, this approach A local college or university may is useful; it provides information have faculty and students interested that demonstrates that because in working with the community of our efforts, more (or less) of on this issue. something is happening. Evaluate the Quality of Your system of care, they measure Collaboration outcome indicators such as Often Catholic partnerships the reduction in the use of the Collaboration takes fail to examine the quality and hospital emergency departments valuable time and strength of their collaborative as a primary site for care and the resources and we want in a formal method. The exception level of empowerment of com- to spend the time avail- is the CHEC of Orange County. munity residents as measured by able on activities that Because it has the goal of develop- participation in city government. will quickly and directly ing a collaborative approach to CHEC also examines the effec- benefit the community. the organization and delivery of tiveness of the collaboration itself As a result, evaluation services that can be replicated by using leadership, management, in other communities, it views of our efforts…is often communication, decision-making, given short shrift. evaluation as very important. and conflict resolution as indicators CHEC hired a consultant to be rated as high, medium, or working with the collaborative’s 29 low. In addition, the group felt hospital partner to conduct the it would be important to assess evaluation. The result evaluates participants’ perceptions of the quality of their collaboration equitable treatment and of the on a number of different levels: balance of costs to benefits of To evaluate the quality of involvement in the collaborative. their collaboration on the Each of these functions and factors program and service levels, was carefully defined, and a variety they measure the number of of assessment tools were used to clients who are referred to gather data. or already receiving services. The result: CHEC partners To measure the strength and and stakeholders found the growth of the collaboration, evaluation process very positive they used a variety of strategies, and the findings extremely useful. including surveys and key Action plans have been formulated informant interviews. to address the findings. To measure the quality of the collaboration on the overall Learn From Your Failures Roadblocks that can’t be Failure can be a useful An early effort to establish a surmounted, and even the learning experience. full ambulatory care service on occasional failure of a collaborative the Catholic Charities campus effort, can actually deepen of Tampa brought the partners relationships because the process “The church is a together in an intensive collabora- of overcoming difficulties often learning and teaching tive strategic planning process. brings people together. Lessons institution continually Later, financial considerations learned from ministry partnerships striving to know God’s made the project impossible. suggest that the best approach However, the participants learned to an unyielding roadblock is will and to proclaim it; from their experience. The shared to consider it as an interesting to preserve its tradition disappointment, solidified relation- challenge that requires creative and apply it to current ships, and strengthened a common problem-solving rather than as circumstances; and to commitment to future collaborative an insurmountable barrier. If the understand the joys, projects. In the words of one roadblock proves too difficult to 30 sorrows, hopes, and participant, “The failed attempt overcome, the groundwork has disappointments of was actually good for us. The still been laid and relationships people. This activity is process was a success since we got forged for future, more successful both caring and healing to know people on multiple levels.” collaborations. in and of itself.”

Ministering Together: A Shared Vision for Healing and Caring Ministries Trumpet Progress addressing. This includes the This is not the time Trumpet your success. As the print media, from the regional to be shy, modest, collaboratives launch initiatives newspapers to the local “penny or pinch pennies. and get results, it is important to saver” newspapers. It also let the community, policy- includes television outlets makers, funders, and the world and local radio stations. We are animated by know this. By trumpeting documented the Gospel imperative Develop a communications results that were accomplished to further the caring and marketing strategy for because of collaboration, you are and healing mission the collaborative by working ensuring “money in the bank” in of Jesus. with the communications terms of positive publicity in the community, political influence, Ministering Together: and marketing staff of partner A Shared Vision for Healing organizations. Use these future funding, and the accounta- and Caring Ministries experts to help publicize the bility and credibility of the collective’s progress. collaboration. Trumpeting 31 accomplishments is not boasting— Develop relationships with the it is being accountable to your media and bring them to the organization, to the broader community to talk about the church, and to your community. issues the collaborative is Appendix

Here’s What You Need To work in a collaboration with to Know to Collaborate Catholic Charities you need to: “Our shared vision With…Catholic Charities Call the agency executive Catholic Charities USA is a commits us to a future director and introduce yourself. national network of more than encompassing new forms With the exception of large 1,600 community-based agencies of ministry that transcend agencies, most executive and institutions that aim to reduce traditional boundaries, directors are easy to reach. He poverty, support families, and giving faithful Gospel or she will know how to help empower communities. Since its witness. Such new forms you reach the appropriate staff founding more than 250 years ago, will support innovative person. The executive director Catholic Charities has grown to approaches to enhancing should also know if his or become one of the nation’s largest her agency is participating in health and well-being voluntary social service networks. collaborative projects with approaches that are Each Catholic Charities agency is other community nonprofit more holistic and reach unique, but every one shares the organizations. If so, he or she beyond both organiza- 32 common goal of providing the will have the potential to link tional boundaries and services and programs that its you to a larger network. facilities walls.” particular community needs If you want to work on behalf the most. The Catholic Charities Ministering Together: network helps nearly 10 million of a specific population, such as A Shared Vision for Caring people a year of all religious, the elderly or refugees, and you and Healing Ministries economic, and racial backgrounds. already know the Catholic Catholic Charities agencies are Charities staff involved in that organizations with many layers. program, then start there. Local Catholic Charities agencies Many Catholic Charities offer anywhere from a few to agencies have a staff position more than 100 different programs with the title of “parish social helping the underserved, depend- minister.” This individual can ing on the location. These include provide support for work programs on adoption, foster involving parishes in the local homes, housing services, diocese. Often they have initia- HIV/AIDS services, immigration, tives in as many as 15 to 20 pregnancy, parenting, refugee different parishes, know the services, and respite care. parish staff, and can save time locating the appropriate person and program. If you don’t know where to start, assisted living and senior housing go to the Internet and look up facilities, home care agencies, your state. In some instances and other home and community- the state web site will have a based services. directory of local agencies and Because more can be accom- can link you to the local plished in this area with a partner Links For Catholic Charities: Catholic Charities office. than alone, many hospitals and Catholic Charities USA: continuing care providers are www.catholiccharitiesinfo.org The Catholic Charities USA participating more and more in www.catholiccharitiesusa.org web site is also helpful: www.catholiccharitiesusa.org. successful collaborative projects. This membership organization Today successful collaborations serves as the national service are already in place between health center of the Catholic Charities care organizations and those who network. It provides leadership, work on behalf of immigrants, refugees, and the homeless, provid- technical assistance, training, and 33 other resources to local agencies. ing education, housing, and health This site can link you to your care services. Health care facilities local agency. This is especially today play many roles, including helpful when, as in the state of donating space for temporary Arizona, Catholic Charities shelters for the homeless, providing agencies are known by different education to parents for the pro- names, such as Catholic Social motion of health for their children, Service or Catholic Community and staff to teach preventive health Services. care measures to immigrants. To collaborate with Catholic hospitals and continuing care Catholic Health Care organizations: Providing adequate health care to the underserved in this Find out what continuing care country remains a huge challenge. facilities currently offer to the Our communities are stretched community. Health care facilities beyond their capacity to provide usually work with people over a what is necessary. long period of time and often are The Catholic health care familiar with their families, ministry responds to this growing friends, neighbors, and other need not only with hospitals but community supports. They tend with a vast network of nursing to know about the community, facilities, adult day care centers, its problems and resources. It is important to say, “What are Keep in mind that continuing you doing already?” For example, care ministries typically have “What are the chances to smaller administrative staff than Links for Catholic collaborate on setting up hospitals, with leaders and staff Health Care: mobile vans to be available wearing many hats. Catholic Charities USA: to the community?” Learn about other successful www.catholiccharitiesinfo.org Find out the person who has partnerships and how they have www.catholiccharitiesusa.org the authority to authorize formed. For instance, Mercy USCCB: further action, either the Hospital in Miami built a clinic www.usccb.org president or another designee in 2002 that was the result of of the continuing care facility. financing from private founda- Catholic Health Association: Most Catholic health care tions, such as the Deering www. chausa.org facilities have a mission Foundation and the Robert services person responsible Wood Johnson Foundation,

for community outreach. but also received help from 34 Often the CEOs of hospitals, the American Cancer Society, Catholic Charities, and other the Knights of Malta, Miami’s health care facilities serve on bishop and the parish, and each others’ boards, so they physicians volunteering for are already aware of the right Catholic Charities. people to contact in other Finally, be aware that continuing organizations. Remember that care ministries often need entry- hospitals are usually very well- level employees and strive to connected to their communities. provide quality jobs to achieve Besides being large employers in quality care. their individual communities, they also know the “movers and shakers” in their city or town. Parishes The national parish social There are more than 19,500 ministry network is composed Catholic parishes in the United of 80 agencies across the coun- States. For many people, especially try. Catholic Charities USA’s immigrants, the parish is the first Regional Parish Social Ministry place to seek help. Every parish is Training Project continues to Links for Parishes: different, with different resources train agency and parish leaders and abilities. Many have organized and develop regional parish Wellworks: www.wellworks.org parish-based social ministry social ministry networks. efforts that promote a range of A relatively new ministry in projects from direct service to many parishes is the parish social concerns. health ministry, which is local There are countless opportuni- and community based. Health ties for collaboration in parishes. ministers emphasize prevention According to Mary McGinnity of 35 and education and they work the Secretary for Social Concerns within their parishes with Office for the Archdiocese of social concerns ministries and Washington, “Belief is crucial to homebound ministries. At the our work here. We have to live forefront of this work are parish organically, bring more hands nurses, whose numbers have around the table to find answers, been growing in congregations— whether regarding housing, health Protestant, Catholic, and other care, or immigration issues, faiths—for almost 20 years. whatever issues that the poor They are viewed as health and vulnerable have.” promoters focusing on the care To collaborate with parishes of the whole person. Most work you should know about the: on a part-time basis. Parish Social Ministry, a unique Health ministers also include partnership between Catholic lay volunteers trained as health Charities agencies and parishes. advocates to provide support and It draws parishioners into the listen to parishioners who are work of the Church’s social sometimes troubled and lonely. mission. Through parish social Wellworks is a good resource ministry, more than 4,000 that assists congregations parishes across the country to develop congregational address community problems health and wellness models: in ways most appropriate for www.wellworks.org. local circumstances. Catholic Campaign for Human local affiliates. CCHD has assisted Development statewide Catholic Charities The Catholic Campaign for organizations and state Catholic Human Development (CCHD) Conferences to strengthen Links for Catholic Campaign focuses on offering empowerment relationships with community- for Human Development: programs that foster self-sufficiency, based groups dealing with issues Catholic Campaign for helping lift people from lives of such as immigration policy, Human Development: poverty. Established by the criminal justice practices and www.usccb.org/cchd Catholic bishops of the United policies, and welfare reform. USCCB: States in 1970, the Campaign One CCHD collaboration www.usccb.org has offered more than $260 included a welfare-to-work million to 4,000 self-help projects initiative in which CCHD joined Catholic Health Association: initiated and led by poor and the Catholic Health Association www.chausa.org low-income people. and Catholic Charities USA in With funds donated by parishes the promotion of worker-owned 36 through an annual collection, as cooperatives in the fields of para- well as private donations from professional home care and day foundations, religious orders, and care. Another occurred when individuals, CCHD awards grants CCHD worked closely with the on the basis of need, not religious Association of Catholic Colleges affiliation. CCHD-funded projects and Universities to sponsor an work to improve neighborhoods, internship placement program advocate for better education in through which university students local schools, create jobs, and form acquire both knowledge and skills more welcoming communities in the areas of community develop- for immigrants and refugees. ment and social justice advocacy. CCHD achieves its long-term If you want to form a collabo- goal of eliminating poverty and ration with the CCHD, you can injustice in the United States with Contact your local diocesan collaboration and the active director engagement of Catholic and other community-based organizations. Contact the CCHD national In recent years, it has intensified office at 202-541-3210 its collaboration with organizations Consult the CCHD web site: such as the Catholic Health www.usccb.org/cchd Association, Catholic Charities USA, the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities, and their Catholic Schools CCHD developed a multimedia Catholic schools, colleges, youth arts contest three years Links for Catholic Schools and universities across the country ago to reach out to youth and NCEA: are involved in numerous collabora- encourage them to work in a www.ncea.org tions in a number of ministry creative way on projects that settings. They include collaborative explore the issues of poverty Catholic Campus initiatives with the Catholic Health and injustice in the United States. Ministry Association: Association; Catholic Relief Services It is open to students in the 7th www.ccmanet.org (CRS); CCHD; the United States through 12th grades in Catholic Community-Campus Conference of Catholic Bishops’ schools and parishes. Partnerships for Health: (USCCB) Secretariat for Social Frontiers of Justice: A collaborative www:futurehealth.ucsf.edu Development and World Peace endeavor between CRS and the USCCB: and their Office of Higher Education National Catholic Educational www.usccb.org/cchd/youth.htm and Campus Ministry; as well as Association, secondary school collaboratives with other colleges department, seeks to integrate Center of Concern: www.coc.org 37 and universities and local, state, issues of global justice into the National Federation of and federal government agencies, high school curriculum and social Catholic Youth Ministry: such as the United States Agency ministry projects. www.nfcym.org for International Development. In New Jersey, the Sisters of More than 1,200 Catholic high Charity of St. Elizabeth run the schools serve more than 600,000 Seton Center, a cooperative pro- students throughout the United gram of four schools that works States, and 7,000 Catholic preschool, with whole families to provide pre- elementary, and middle school vention programs for alcoholism, learning communities educate more drugs, separation, and so forth. It than 2 million students. Through provides preventive training and the National Catholic Educational decision making skills for families Association (NCEA) and the and works with a neighborhood USCCB, many of these students are health center where nurse practi- actively involved in collaborative tioners provide diagnostic services social justice projects. Other projects and treatment. It also offers a job collaborate with agencies to meet search program and collaborates the needs of families whose children with other area Catholic schools as attend Catholic schools. well as agencies in the private and Some examples of collaborative public sector that make available projects involving Catholic schools resources and expertise to help or Catholic school students include: at-risk students. Resources include: Catholic Colleges and Universities Since 1997, Selected Programs Some examples of collaborative for Improving Catholic projects with students attending Links for Catholic Education (SPICE), a collabora- Catholic colleges and universities: Colleges and Universities tive effort between NCEA and Catholic University of America Association of Catholic Colleges Boston College, identifies and opened a Child and Family and Universities: makes available for duplication Community Behavioral Health www.accunet.org outstanding programs that Center, a mental health clinic NCEA: www.ncea.org address pressing educational funded by a grant from the U.S. needs. In 2000 SPICE sponsored Department of Health and Catholic Campus Ministry a program on integrating the Human Services’ Bureau of Association: www.ccmanet.org social teaching of the church Health Professions. Community-Campus into Catholic schools and listed Saint Michael’s College, VT, is Partnerships for Health: schools that have successful partnering with LakeNet, a www:futurehealth.ucsf.edu 38 ongoing social service programs. nonprofit organization seeking You can find out more to protect the world’s lakes, about SPICE by visiting supported by a USAID grant. www.ncea.org/departments/cace/ The University of Portland, OR, programs/spice.asp. in partnership with Providence The National Federation for Health System, is establishing a Catholic Youth Ministry, a multimillion dollar scholarship professional organization of program that includes 75 affiliated dioceses and collaborat- full-time tuition scholarships ing members, offers programs to and placement opportunities in enhance ministry with young the Providence Health System, people, including “Stand Against the largest program of its kind Violence,” “Environmental to address the issues of this Justice,” and “Children of country’s nursing shortage. Military Parents.” Next The University of Santa Clara, November, in collaboration with CA, in collaboration with the CCHD, CRS, and the USCCB local Catholic Charities and Office of Social Development hospital of that region, and World Peace, the federation conducted a survey of the is designing a program called end-of-life preferences of its Youth Congress whose topic is Hispanic community. The results social justice. of the survey were sent to Catholic Charities and local health through service learning, hospitals to develop informed community-based research, practice taking into account what community service, and other Hispanic families are looking for partnership strategies. in terms of end-of-life care. Links for Housing Programs: Resources for collaborations Housing Programs with Catholic colleges and According to many local Catholic Charities USA: www.catholiccharitiesusa.org universities: Catholic Charities agencies, the leading problem low-income The Association of Catholic Mercy Housing: families face is the shortage of Colleges and Universities works www:mercyhousing.org affordable housing. The U.S. with faculty on peace and justice Department of Housing and and Catholic social teaching Urban Development (HUD) reports seminars. Its peace and justice that the number of families paying education web site represents a more than half their incomes for 39 collaborative effort of the rent, living in severely substandard Association of Catholic Colleges housing, or doing both is at an and Universities (ACCU), all-time high of 5.4 million people. CCHD, CRS, and the According to HUD, for every 100 Departments of Social households at or below 30 percent Development and World Peace of the area median income, there are and Higher Education and only 36 affordable units available. Campus Ministry at the USCCB The housing shortage is typical (USCCB/SDWP). It provides in Arizona. In the words of Paul campuses with links to resources Martodam, executive director of they can collaborate with Catholic Charities in Phoenix, (http://update.accunet.org). “The demand for housing here Another excellent resource is is tremendous, way beyond what the Community-Campus we can meet. We are turning away Partnerships for Health, a non- two requests for every family we profit organization that promotes can serve.” health through partnerships The reasonable solution, to between communities and higher build more low-income housing, educational institutions. It is a sounds simple but can be compli- growing network of more than cated. Barriers exist, including com- 1,000 communities and campuses munities less than enthusiastic about that are collaborations to promote welcoming low-income housing developments as well as a struggle service agencies, to see who for financing. is already helping to serve Building low-income housing the homeless. also takes time. From the concept Become aware of nonprofit to grand opening takes three to organizations that help the five years. Families needing homeless, such as Catholic housing must wait until that time Charities, and nonprofit and continue to live in unsafe, housing organizations such as unhealthy, and unaffordable Volunteers of America and housing conditions. National Church Residences. Luckily, families with limited Contact the Strategic Health means can be helped by working Care Partnership (SHCP), a with local governments to restore collaboration of Mercy Housing unsafe and unsanitary apartments and seven Catholic health in such a way that the residents systems that have formed an 40 will not have to pay higher rents alliance to bring affordable after the renovation (Section 8 can housing and health care services be helpful). to individuals and families. The ultimate solution is to SHCP offers health care, recognize housing as a social and education, child care, and economic justice issue and, in the employment as well as housing. spirit of the New Covenant, find SHCP can claim housing innovative, equitable solutions to projects in 34 states. Their a growing housing crisis. clients include the economically To find out about providing disadvantaged as well as the housing for the underserved in elderly and persons with your community: HIV/AIDS. The Mercy Housing Make contact with your local System has provided more than community’s organizations, 40,000 individuals and families such as hospitals, schools, local homes and it continues to grow. government agencies, and social Collaboration on Behalf of and With… Refugees include food, clothing, and hous- Refugees are defined in interna- ing, and long-term needs include tional law as people who are forced health care, employment, language to leave their countries because classes, schools, and job training. of religious, political, or ethnic Links Concerning Refugees: Collaboration with other partners persecution and who are unable is a necessity, not only with other Catholic Charities USA: to return. It is not unusual for churches, synagogues, and mosques www.catholiccharitiesusa.org them to arrive in this country but also with medical facilities, USCCB: www.usccb.org with just the clothes on their back. schools, employers, and even real They often have untreated medical estate agents and landlords. If done Catholic Health Association: conditions or injuries resulting www.chausa.org properly, the resettlement agency is from brutality, and because of the center of a hub able to contact their traumatic experiences, they other organizations and refer clients may have mental health problems for services. as well. To help refugees in your com- 41 When a large population of a munity, you can: country flees, the United Nations Contact the USCCB in sets up camps for them in another Washington, DC, as well as nation and then tries to find a third the Catholic Health Association country where these people can and Catholic Charities USA, move permanently and start a new your parish outreach person, life. In this country, 10 national and community services. voluntary agencies have an Find out what agencies in your agreement with the U.S. State area already have experience Department to help process in helping refugees and what refugees. Of these 10, seven are services they provided. faith-based organizations. The U.S. Immigration Office assigns these Look into what federal and refugees to resettlement with one state aid is available—federal of these agencies. funding provides immediate The USCCB resettles approxi- services, but long-term help mately one-fourth of all refugee involves commitment from families arriving in the United collaborations. States, working in conjunction Learn about the Catholic with Catholic Charities agencies Collaborative Refugee and Catholic dioceses. Helping Network—a national network refugees resettle involves a whole begun in 1995 that is sponsored gamut of services. Short-term needs by the Catholic Health Association, Catholic Charities The needs of immigrants and USA, and the USCCB’s Office migrant farmworkers are daunting. of Migration and Refugee They include adequate housing, Links Concerning Services—which helps refugees health care, language training, Immigrants and Migrants in their struggle to secure health and education. The U.S. Bishops’ USCCB Migration and care and employment. If your Migration Committee drafted a Refugee Services: community does not yet have a statement in 2002 on the role the www.usccb.org/mrs/ participating site in this project, church should play in helping learn how to establish a site in immigrants become settled in Catholic Legal Immigration your area. the United States. Network, Inc.: Many immigrants, because they www.cliniclegal.org Immigrants and Migrants are undocumented, are afraid to go USCCB Secretariat for Thousands of people from to doctors or hospitals. They have Hispanic Affairs: various countries emigrate to the health problems such as high blood www.usccb.org/ pressure and diabetes but don’t hispanicaffairs/staff 42 United States every day, yet there is no single organization in this want to get help or are unable to afford a physician visit. There is a Catholic Charities USA: country to bring them all under www.catholiccharitiesusa.org one umbrella and represent their tremendous need on the part of interests. Recent figures from the immigrants to have a safe place to Immigrants Support Network: Bureau of Labor Statistics estimate discuss their families’ needs, and www.isn.org there were about 15.7 million resources for them to have help in immigrant workers in the country preventive medicine, not just emer- in 2000. About 5 million of them gency treatment in hospitals. are illegal immigrants. Three Even though since September million of them are migrant and 11, 2001, the number of immi- seasonal farmworkers. grants entering our country is The labor of farmworkers is decreasing, there remains a pressing vital to our food production, yet need to help these people on farmworkers, their needs, and their many different levels. To find out circumstances are largely invisible how to help immigrants in your to the American public. Most farm- community: workers are Hispanic and many Contact your local parish, travel thousands of miles each year community social services organ- to prepare and harvest our crops. ization, Catholic Charities office, Farmworkers still average less than or hospital to see what services $10,000 per year in earnings and are available. usually work without benefits such as health insurance. Learn about successful collabora- understand the difficult condi- Links Concerning tives in other communities and tions they live and work in Vulnerable Women: how you can emulate their (www.catholiccharitiesinfo.org). National Council of Catholic services. For example, “Bright Women: www.nccw.org Futures,” a project started Vulnerable Women in Whatcom County in USCCB: At-risk mothers, victims of www.usccb.org Washington, is a nationally domestic violence, those involved funded, three-year collaborative with respite care, the frail elderly, International Catholic pilot with the county health human trafficking victims—all can Migration Commission: department, St. Joseph Hospital, be classified as vulnerable women. www.icmc.net Head Start, Nooksack Valley Forming a collaboration on behalf CRS: Center for Children and of vulnerable women can be www.catholicrelief.org Families, and the Lummi Tribal accomplished by following the Health Center. It aims to build same steps necessary to form any End Child Prostitution, more effective well-child and other collaboration: identify people 43 Pornography, and Trafficking developmental services to (ECPAT): www.ecpatusa.org and organizations with similar Medicaid-eligible children from interests and goals and try to work birth through five years old. Its with them. main purpose is to help parents According to Sheila McCarron, become more involved in their program chair for the National children’s health care. Council of Catholic Women, Try to involve leaders in the people often don’t take enough community you are trying to time to research the resources avail- help, especially immigrants who able in their community to identify have been in the community for collaborative partners. This can a while. As Sr. Elizabeth Worley, be accomplished by calling local Mercy Hospital, Miami, agencies to find out who else in states, “This is very much an the community is working on immigrant society, and even the behalf of vulnerable women and affluent haven’t forgotten and joining forces with them. come together to help.” The Committee on Women Learn about Catholic Charities in Society and in the Church, a USA’s Migrant and Farm Worker standing committee of the Project. Catholic Charities USCCB, has been an advocate workers have spent the last few for women for the last 10 years, years visiting farms and inter- seeking to promote their dignity viewing farmworkers to better and just treatment in the church and in society. They examine women’s leadership roles in the refer to for assistance. This is church, domestic violence, and one of many useful USCCB older women. publications for parishes, Other resources for helping women’s and social justice vulnerable women include: groups, church-sponsored chari- A large number of Catholic ties, and health care facilities. organizations are working Project Gabriel is a compassion- together to combat the growing ate and caring way that each exploitation of women and parish can carry out its mission children in the form of human to proclaim and extend the trafficking. According to the Gospel of Life. Trained volun- USCCB, from 1 to 4 million teers have knowledge of available people worldwide will be government and community trafficked this year to work resources to help women who

in the illicit sex industry, are pregnant and need help. 44 sweatshops, and as domestic Project Rachel is a diocesan- labor. Resources to help based ministry open to anyone these victims include the whose life has been affected by International Catholic Migration abortion loss. It is composed of Commission; CRS; End Child trained clergy, spiritual directors, Prostitution, Pornography and therapists to provide com- and Trafficking; and the Office passionate one-on-one care to to Monitor and Combat those struggling with the after- Trafficking in Persons, U.S. math of abortion. This healing Department of State. ministry exists in more than 110 USCCB Publishing produces dioceses in the United States, helpful and practical publica- with more ministries growing. tions for different groups involved in collaborations on specific topics. One such example is A Pastoral Response to Domestic Violence Against Women, which includes strategies for victims, updated statistics, and new resources and web sites that individuals can Links

Links For Catholic Charities: Links for Catholic Schools: Links Concerning Refugees: Catholic Charities USA: NCEA: www.ncea.org Catholic Charities USA: www.catholiccharitiesinfo.org www.catholiccharitiesusa.org www.catholiccharitiesusa.org Catholic Campus Ministry Association: USCCB: www.usccb.org www.ccmanet.org Links For Catholic Health Care: Catholic Health Association: Catholic Charities USA: Community-Campus www. chausa.org www.catholiccharitiesinfo.org Partnerships for Health: www.catholiccharitiesusa.org www:futurehealth.ucsf.edu Links Concerning Immigrants and Migrants: USCCB: www.usccb.org USCCB: www.usccb.org/cchd/youth.htm USCCB Migration and Refugee Catholic Health Association: Services: www.usccb.org/mrs/ www. chausa.org Center of Concern: www.coc.org Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc.: www.cliniclegal.org Links For Parishes: National Federation of 45 Wellworks: www.wellworks.org Catholic Youth Ministry: USCCB Secretariat for Hispanic www.nfcym.org Affairs: www.usccb.org/ hispanicaffairs/staff Links for Catholic Campaign for Human Development: Links for Catholic Colleges Catholic Charities USA: and Universities: Catholic Campaign for www.catholiccharitiesusa.org Human Development: Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities: www.accunet.org Immigrants Support Network: www.usccb.org/cchd www.isn.org USCCB: www.usccb.org NCEA: www.ncea.org Catholic Campus Ministry Links Concerning Catholic Health Association: Vulnerable Women: www.chausa.org Association: www.ccmanet.org National Council of Catholic Community-Campus Women: www.nccw.org Partnerships for Health: www:futurehealth.ucsf.edu USCCB: www.usccb.org International Catholic Links for Housing Programs: Migration Commission: Catholic Charities USA: www.icmc.net www.catholiccharitiesusa.org CRS: www.catholicrelief.org Mercy Housing: www:mercyhousing.org End Child Prostitution, Pornography, and Trafficking (ECPAT): www.ecpatusa.org