SHARING SUCCESSES AND CHALLENGES
Regular Communication

Many of the Center's partners say the partnerships work because of relationships—not mandates. Currently, partners meet informally when they need to, but much of the interaction among the agencies is part of their daily routine. Communication flows constantly through a variety of channels.

The partners get together regularly over meals to discuss their activities and progress. The Workforce Investment Board sends out memoranda on current activities and upcoming meetings. The Board also organizes a monthly luncheon for the RCT, during which the partners take turns making presentations on their programs, services, and activities. The Adult Education Center instructors and administrators send brochures to other agencies and keep in "constant contact" with the staff members of other programs.

Open and frequent communication creates trust among the partners, which many identified as a key element in their effectiveness. As one partner put it, "Everyone operates under the assumption that if we understand what each of the partners is doing, we're going to serve the client better." They know that their partners will "do what they say they will do." They also point out that "Partnership is developmental...it happens over time, and it is not fast."