Connecting People to Opportunities

By Rodney Bullard
CEO The Same House PBC | Former Senior Executive at Chick-fil-A / Global CSR, ESG and Marketing Leader | Best-Selling Author | Former AUSA | Former Air Force JAG l Corporate and Non-profit Board Director
How do we as communities build upon the excellent work of others? How do we minimize the division and maximize the connection? It begins with identifying the disconnect between people and opportunities. We must first examine the inequities within our environment regarding overpolicing, healthcare, education, and lack of economic opportunities. Building new bridges is hard when basic needs are not met. Without reformation, we have mistrust and false narratives about those who are not like us in these areas.
Coalitions are great because they are organized and focused. Planning and process are essential, but they must begin with leadership. One is about the work, while the other is about the people. Relationships and connecting with the people in the community and those being served must come first. They must be willing to reach out and connect with people who may feel underserved, angry, or who are hurting.
Start a coalition with a group of like-minded people who have the same goals. The group can expand and broaden its network once the reason behind the alliance is established. Be mindful of the purpose. It’s important to go beyond what is seen and read from the media and get the facts right. This happens when people take the time to get to know one another and move past assumptions and generalities.
We all have the power we can spend. It’s a matter of everyone taking an inventory of what their ability looks like. For some people, it’s money they can donate or leverage to create more resources. It may be in education and mentorship. Imagine the economic lift someone may receive if they can learn a new skill or gain experience. Another form of power is with time. Every coalition and bridge-building effort needs people who can do the work and put in the hours, from the organization, event management, and awareness campaigns to serving food, providing deliveries, and collecting donations.
Every single person has power that carries weight and can be spent. It takes courage to reach out and extend that currency to someone on the other side of the bridge. This is why we must lead with compassion, acceptance, and grace. We can only listen to one another when we are open to the idea of listening.