Based on the recommendations made in the pilot, the plan for a Connect Kansas Community Team Training has been put on hold and resources redirected to enhance technical assistance services. Expanded the capability of the on-line Community Documentation System to include Connect Kansas Community Partnerships. The system, administered through the University of Kansas, is currently tracking the progress of more than 150 community coalitions and partnerships and issuing monthly reports that can be used for improving local planning. Developed an orientation training for Kansas State University Research and Extension staff. Regional conversations on Connect Kansas are scheduled for this Fall.
Many communities suggest they are supporting partnerships that address single-focused issues.
They are frustrated with the fact that funders encourage local collaboration and comprehensive planning around community needs and then offer the partners the opportunity to compete against one another for a particular program that may or may not meet the needs of the community. Communities want long-term and coordinated investments across state agencies and private initiatives. Public and private funders indicate they are supportive of collaborative approaches but implementing this vision is not usually done. However, communities want technical assistance and the needed resources so they can be successful. While there is support for coordinated, collaborative approaches there is confusion about how all the programs across the state and in communities connect.