Powering Partnerships: YouthBridge Awards Partnership/Merger Grant to Pathways to Independence
YouthBridge Community Foundation of Greater St. Louis exists to connect resources and community needs. We often think of that in terms of a grant to a nonprofit that directly benefits those served. In some cases, the assistance is more “behind the scenes.” The YouthBridge Partnership or Merger Grant helps nonprofits that share goals or provide similar services determine the best way to strengthen capacity through collaboration, perhaps through partnering or merging.
A Partnership or Merger Grant was awarded recently to three agencies doing great work in our region: Pathways to Independence, Options for Justice, and LifeBridge Partnership. Each organization’s mission addresses the needs of individuals with disabilities in different and complementing ways. Pathways to Independence (PTI) supports the development of skills for those who seek greater independence and social success. Options for Justice (OFJ) addresses the needs and concerns of individuals who have become involved with the justice system. LifeBridge Partnership (LBP) provides recreational and social opportunities to promote a meaningful and inclusive community life. Together, all three organizations help to improve the quality of life for St. Louis-area residents with disabilities.
Not surprisingly, common funding sources existed for these organizations, and Pathways to Independence (PTI) and Options for Justice (OFJ) previously officed in the same building. They, along with another nonprofit in the building, joined forces in 2017 to upgrade technology and share outsourced IT operations. Soon, LifeBridge Partnership (LBP) joined the conversation, specifically about office space. As a result, in 2020 the three organizations formed an LLC to handle leasing and now they share office space. PTI and LBP also share an administrative employee and LBP subleases vehicles to PTI.
According to Jodi Woessner, Executive Director of Pathways to Independence, the effort has been extremely worthwhile. She relayed that common expenses such as rent, internet, copier, and shredding services are shared on a prorated basis depending on the dedicated space each agency occupies. Decisions are made equally and with such shared values, the agencies’ leaders have enjoyed working together. Jodi continued, “In addition to the concrete benefits, we recognize the intangible benefits of sharing the space such as synergies with program staff and an informal ‘advisory’ board for agency leadership.”
The successes led to a desire to explore a deeper collaboration. Pathways to Independence had a relationship with YouthBridge as a result of receiving funding from YouthBridge fundholders in the past, so as the group discussions progressed, they approached YouthBridge about applying for a Partnership or Merger Grant. After recognizing the value provided by the three organizations and the potential that a deeper alliance could provide, YouthBridge invited the group to apply for the opportunity, and ultimately awarded a $15,000 grant.
The organizations are excited to use the grant funding for consultation services to explore the most effective and efficient ways to extend their alliance while maintaining their separate identities. Jodi summed it up, “This grant from YouthBridge is so appreciated. It allows us to expand plans that will further benefit community members with disabilities in many ways.” It is not surprising that YouthBridge agrees. We look forward to a new year of continued collaborations and increased impact.
YouthBridge connects donors with community needs. If you are interested in learning more about how we can make charitable giving easier for you, please contact Michele Mosley.