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Welcome to the winter 2007 edition of Connected in which we reflect on the Georgia Family Connection ninth biennial conference. Over the years, I've noticed that each of our conferences take on a different tone, and nuggets of inspiration emerge by the sheer fact that we're all together in one place to learn, share, and support each other. Our 2007 Conference was no different. While reflecting on past conferences, their themes, particular words or phrases that seem to resonate with many of us, I recalled three words I used six years ago to describe our Family Connection network and partnership: purpose, passion, and power. We said then, and it holds true now, that our purpose is clear. Our network of community-based collaboratives is results-oriented, locally governed, and committed to public/private partnerships and accountability. We purposefully advocate for state system changes and the use of data-driven decision-making. Passion for this work that begins deep within our hearts. The journey is long, but the investment is critical—Georgia's children and its future. The power is in our numbers and in our data, and the fact that the potential of this network and state partnership is unlimited. Now, six years later, a fourth "P" is emerging to describe our work—proven. We've proven that Family Connection is not a novel idea; we are here to stay. We've proven that collaboration and public/private partnerships work and that more can be accomplished together rather than separately. We're leveraging our state-appropriated dollars $5 to every $1; regional partnerships are growing and flourishing; and state and national organizations seek information about your plans through the newly created CIMS database. We are proving that decisions are better when based on data. More counties, state partners, and legislators are seeking and using the data we collect and analyze through our KIDS COUNT efforts. Our outcomes analysis work is groundbreaking and providing us with the evidence we need to demonstrate that collaboration and sustained focus can move the benchmarks of child well-being. We are demonstrating that we add value to the state's systems of support for children and families, policy and budget discussions, and the replication of successful strategies by connecting them to community experience and practice. The idea of Family Connection is no longer a promising practice. We are fast becoming a proven practice. However, we cannot hesitate, nor can we rest. We must seize every opportunity to prove our practices through expanded regional partnerships, continued focus on results, and creative uses of data and technology. But most importantly, we must stay true to our values as we move into new emerging opportunities. We cannot allow other state or national organizational mandates or changing political environments distract us from our commitment to local governance and decision-making. I wish you and your loved ones a peaceful and joyous holiday season, and I look forward to continue our work for Georgia's family and children in 2008. Sincerely, Gaye
Morris Smith |
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