Building Community Partnerships: Better Together at the PAT National Conference
On October 16, 2024, several of our Illinois supervisors presented an inspiring session titled “Better Together: Community Partnerships 2.0” at the PAT National Conference in San Diego. Led by Michelle Alanis, Rhonda Eubanks, Carol Montgomery Fate, and Jeanine Woltman, the presentation highlighted how five local Illinois programs—including three PAT affiliates and two Healthy Families programs—joined forces to create a unified Affiliate Advisory Council. This council was developed to amplify program impact through shared resources and coordinated efforts.
The Power of Collaboration
The presenters detailed the journey of forming the council, explaining how aligning goals and leveraging PAT tools helped address community needs more effectively. They provided insight into the “why” behind their collaborative efforts, shared practical steps they took, and discussed the benefits of a connected approach.
Building Connections with Community Partners
An essential part of the presentation involved brainstorming ways to build community partnerships to further support families. The session highlighted potential partnership ideas across sectors such as healthcare, local resources, and community services. Attendees were encouraged to think broadly about whom they could engage and how these partnerships could extend their reach.
Strategies for Engaging Partners and Connecting with Parents
To maintain successful partnerships, the presenters offered actionable strategies for engaging community partners and reaching families. These included hosting regular events, establishing ongoing communication, and tailoring outreach methods to fit the needs of both partners and parents. Emphasis was also placed on inclusivity, with suggestions for ways to accommodate diverse family needs and backgrounds.
Moving Forward with Community Partnerships
The presentation underscored the value of building a supportive, interconnected network around home visiting programs. The Illinois PAT affiliates showcased a model for collaboration that could inspire similar efforts across the country, with the message that home visiting programs are truly “better together.”
