Sisters In Common (SIC) defined partnership as a collaborative relationship with other organizations or individuals who share our commitment to addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) and Health Related Social Needs (HRSN) in our community. Our partnership would entail mutual support, shared resources, and joint efforts in providing community-informed, culturally competent SDoH services. The goal of our partnerships is to enhance the effectiveness of our services, expand our reach, and ultimately improve the health outcomes of our community members. In finding and selecting a partner, SIC looked for organizations or individuals who share our mission and values. We sought partners who understand the unique needs and experiences of our community members, particularly in relation to systemic SDoH disparity and inequity. We also looked for partners who have the resources, expertise, and commitment to contribute to our work in a meaningful way. The negotiation of the partnership involved open and honest discussions about the goals, expectations, roles, and responsibilities of each party. SIC emphasized the importance of mutual respect, transparency, and shared decision-making in the partnership. We also discussed how we would handle potential challenges or disagreements in the partnership, to ensure that the partnership would remain strong and productive even in the face of difficulties. In addition, SIC ensured that our partnerships would be beneficial for both parties. For SIC, the partnership would provide additional resources and support for our work. For the partner, the partnership would offer opportunities to contribute to a meaningful cause and to learn from SIC’s extensive experience and deep understanding of our communities. By ensuring mutual benefits, SIC aimed to create partnerships that is not only effective but also sustainable in the long term. Equity is a core principle of Sisters In Common (SIC), and it is deeply embedded in all our decisions, including the choice of partnerships. When choosing partners, SIC considered how the partnership would contribute to advancing equity in our communities. Firstly, we looked for partners who share our commitment to addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) and Health Related Social Needs (HRSN), particularly among our marginalized and underserved groups in our communities. We sought partners who understand the systemic disparities and inequities that our community members face and are committed to addressing these issues. Secondly, we considered the partner’s approach to equity. We looked for partners who not only talk about equity but also demonstrate it in their practices. This includes having diverse and inclusive teams, providing culturally competent services, and actively seeking and valuing the input of the communities they serve. Thirdly, we considered how the partnership would impact our community. We sought partnerships that would enhance our capacity to provide SDoH services, expand our reach, and ultimately improve the health outcomes of our community members. We also considered how the partnership would empower our community members, for example, by giving them a voice in decision-making regarding their health care and addressing the what, when, where , how and who of their health related social needs. Lastly, we considered the sustainability of the partnership. We sought partners who are not interested in short-term projects but are committed to long-term collaboration. They believe that sustainable partnerships are crucial for achieving lasting change and advancing equity in our community. In sum, SIC take equity into account in ALL OUR choice of partnerships by considering how the partnership aligns with OUR commitment to equity, how the partner practices equity, how the partnership would impact OUR Communities, and how sustainable the partnership is.

Sisters In Common (SIC) is acutely aware of the potential for power dynamics or imbalances in partnerships, particularly given their focus on addressing systemic disparities and inequities. We have several strategies to address these issues. Firstly, we emphasize mutual respect and shared decision-making in our partnerships. We believe that all partners bring valuable resources, expertise, and perspectives to the table, and we ensure that all voices are heard and valued in decision-making processes. This approach helps to balance power and ensure that no partner dominates the partnership. Secondly, we are transparent about our goals, expectations, roles, and responsibilities in the partnership. We believe that clear communication is key to preventing misunderstandings and conflicts that could exacerbate power imbalances. We also ensure that all partners are accountable for their roles and responsibilities, which helps to maintain balance in the partnership. Thirdly, We actively seek partnerships with organizations or individuals who share our commitment to equity. We believe that partners who understand and value equity are more likely to be mindful of power dynamics and work towards balancing power in the partnership. Lastly, we are open to feedback and willing to adjust our approach without giving up our mission, as needed. We understand that power dynamics can shift over time, and we are committed to continually assessing and addressing any imbalances that may arise. In sum, SIC addresses power dynamics or imbalances in partnerships through mutual respect and shared decision-making, clear communication and accountability, a shared commitment to equity, and a willingness to adjust and adapt as needed.

Challenges Sisters In Common (SIC) faced in our partnerships, that caused difficulties in collaborations, range from differences in organizational culture, communication issues, and differing expectations about roles and responsibilities. To overcome such challenges, SIC employed several strategies based on our principles and practices: Open Communication: SIC maintained open lines of communication with our partners to discuss any issues or concerns as that arise. This would involve regular meetings or check-ins to ensure everyone is on the same page and any problems are addressed promptly. Shared Decision-Making: To ensure all partners feel valued and heard, SIC continue to practice shared decision-making. This involves including all partners in the decision-making process, ensuring each partner’s voice is heard, and reaching consensus on key decisions. Mutual Respect: SIC continue to foster an environment of mutual respect, where each partner’s contributions are valued and acknowledged. This helps to maintain a positive working relationship and can help to resolve conflicts when they arise. Flexibility and Adaptability: Recognizing that partnerships can evolve over time, SIC remain flexible and adaptable, willing to reassess and adjust the partnership agreement, roles, or responsibilities as needed. (e.g. the CCA contract we just completed). Focus on Shared Goals: Despite any differences that might arise, keeping the focus on the shared goals of the partnership – in this case, addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) and Health Related Social Needs (HRSN) – help to overcome challenges. This shared objective served as a unifying force, reminding all partners of why we entered into the partnership in the first place. By employing these strategies, SIC work to overcome any challenges that arise in our partnerships, ensuring they continue to effectively serve our communities.

Sisters In Common (SIC) has a robust system for sharing information and communication, both internally and externally. Here are some of the ways WE do this: Feedback Loop: SIC has established a feedback loop with our staff, clients, and community leadership/stakeholders. We routinely request information and feedback about the types, quantity, and quality of services, including thoughts on how to improve services further. This two-way communication ensures that our services remain relevant and effective in addressing the needs of our community members. Training and Mentorship: SIC provides training to our AT-HPP Community Service Workers (CSW) and Community Health Workers (CHW) with support from staff who share the same culture. These trainings are conducted in the stipend intern’s primary language, ensuring clear and effective communication. Community Alerts Tool: SIC has created a “Community Alerts” tool as part of our website and phone-based communications infrastructure. This tool is effective in sharing SDoH and HRSN information while providing ongoing communication to all community members. Partnerships: SIC shares information and communicates with our partners to ensure the effectiveness of our collaborative efforts. We maintain open lines of communication with our partners, discussing goals, expectations, roles, and responsibilities, and addressing any issues or concerns as they arise. Surveys and Focus Groups: SIC uses surveys and conducts periodic conversations/focus groups to gather information from clients/community members, leadership/stakeholders about the quantity and quality of services from first contact to completion. This information is used to gauge ongoing satisfaction and ideas for improvement. Through these methods, SIC ensures that information is shared effectively, and communication is maintained with all relevant parties.

Sisters In Common (SIC) meet with our partners weekly and monthly, staff and community members Daily check-ins (e.g., “stand-up meetings),” and sit downs several times a week. This is in line with our commitment to open communication, shared decision-making, and continuous feedback. The frequency of our meetings depend on several factors, including the nature of the partnership or project, the needs and preferences of the partners, and any issues or concerns that need to be addressed. For example, we might have weekly or bi-weekly meetings during the initial stages of a project or partnership, and then switch to monthly meetings once things are running smoothly. We might also have additional meetings as needed to address any problems or make important decisions. Note: In addition to formal meetings, SIC maintains ongoing communication with our partners, staff, and community members through other means, such as email, phone calls, and our “Community Alerts” tool. This ensures that everyone stays informed and connected, even between meetings.

Again, Sisters In Common (SIC) facilitates communication through several means, ensuring that information is shared effectively and that all voices are heard. Here are some of the ways we do this: Regular Meetings: SIC holds regular meetings with our staff, partners, and community stakeholders. These meetings provide a platform for discussing goals, progress, challenges, and strategies. We also allow for shared decision-making, ensuring that all parties have a say in key decisions. Feedback Loop: SIC has established a check-out – feedback loop with our staff, clients, and community leadership/stakeholders. We routinely request information and feedback about the types, quantity, and quality of services. This two-way communication ensures that our services remain relevant and effective in addressing the needs of our community members. Training and Mentorship: SIC provides training to our Community Service Workers (CSW) and Community Health Workers (CHW) with support from staff who share the same culture. These trainings are conducted in the stipend intern’s primary language, ensuring clear and effective communication. Community Alerts, and Information Sharing Tools: SIC has created these tools as part of our website and phone-based communications infrastructure. These tools are effective in sharing SDoH and HRSN information while providing ongoing communication to all community members. Surveys and Focus Groups: SIC uses surveys and conducts periodic conversations/focus groups to gather information from clients/community members, leadership/stakeholders about the quantity and quality of services from first contact to completion. This information is used to gauge ongoing satisfaction and ideas for improvement. Open and Transparent Communication: SIC emphasizes the importance of open and transparent communication in all our interactions. We are clear about our mission, goals, expectations, roles, and responsibilities, and we are open to feedback and willing to adjust our approach, as needed, without giving up on our mission. Through these methods, SIC facilitates effective communication with all relevant parties, ensuring that information is shared, feedback is gathered, and decisions are made collaboratively.

Sisters In Common (SIC) brings several strengths to co-create solutions: Community Knowledge and Experience: With over 25 years of experience providing community- informed, culturally competent Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) services, SIC has a deep understanding of the needs and experiences of our community members. This knowledge and experience enable us to develop solutions that are relevant and effective. Cultural Competence: SIC hires directly from our client’s cultural and ethnic communities, ensuring that our services are culturally competent and community-specific. This cultural competence is a significant strength in co-creating solutions that are accepted and valued by the community. Commitment to Equity: SIC is committed to addressing systemic SDoH disparity and inequity. This commitment drives our work and ensures that our solutions aim to advance equity in our communities. Feedback Loop: SIC’s established check-out -feedback loops with our staff, clients, and community leadership/stakeholders ensures that our solutions are informed by the people they serve. The checkout- feedback loop is a valuable tool for co-creating solutions that meet our community member’s needs. As for our partners, they bring their own set of strengths, such as additional resources, expertise in specific areas, and connections with other communities or organizations to address the physical health, mental health and health related social needs of our community members. These strengths complement those of SIC, enabling us to co-create more comprehensive and effective services. The partnership between SIC and our partners fills a gap that existed before by combining our strengths and resources. Before the partnership, SIC was limited in what we could achieve on our own. But with the partnership, we have expanded our deep-dive reach, enhance our SDoH services, that make a greater impact in our community members ability to address their health related social needs. This is particularly important in addressing systemic disparities and inequities, which require collective efforts and resources.

As said differently earlier, Sisters In Common (SIC) places a high value on community engagement in all aspects of our work, including the planning and decision-making processes of our services. Community Engagement in Planning: SIC engages the community in the planning of our services through various means. We conduct surveys and hold focus groups or community conversations with our families, friends and neighbors to gather input on service content and priorities. We also use our “Community Alerts” tool to share information and gather feedback from our community members. Community Engagement in Decision Making: SIC includes the community in decision-making processes by seeking their feedback and incorporating it into our decisions. We have established a checkout-feedback loop with our staff, clients, and community leadership/stakeholders, routinely requesting information and feedback about the types, quantity, and quality of services. This ensures that the community’s voice is heard and valued in decision-making processes. Incorporating Feedback from the Community: SIC incorporates feedback from our communities in several ways. We include community responses and suggestions in all services and future planning. We also use community feedback to gauge ongoing satisfaction and generate ideas for improvement. This feedback is integral to our work, informing our strategies and shaping our services. Accountability to the Community: SIC includes accountability to the communities we serve in our process by being transparent about our goals, expectations, roles, and responsibilities. We also ensure that all partners are accountable for their roles and responsibilities. Moreover, we measure progress towards our goals, such as how many Communities Service Worker (CSW) Interns become Community Health Workers (CHW) or continue their education to provide health professional practice (AT-HPP). Our measurement methods of progress provides a clear indication of our accountability to the community. In sum, SIC engages our communities in the planning and decision-making processes, incorporates their feedback into our work, and includes accountability to the community in our process. This approach ensures that our work is community-informed, culturally competent, and effective in addressing the community’s Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) and Health Related Social Needs (HRSN).

Sisters In Common (SIC) has several aspects of our approach to innovation that are culturally adaptable, ensuring that our services meet the unique needs of our community members. Culturally Competent Staffing: SIC hires directly from the client’s cultural and ethnic communities. This ensures that our staff understand the cultural nuances, values, and needs of the community members they serve. It also fosters trust and rapport between the staff and the community. Language Accessibility: All trainings provided by SIC are supported in the stipend intern’s primary language. This ensures that language barriers do not hinder the community members’ access to and understanding of the services. Community-Informed Services: SIC’s services are informed by the experiences and feedback of our community members. We routinely request information and feedback from our staff, clients, and community leadership/stakeholders about the types, quantity, and quality of services. This ensures that the services are relevant and effective in addressing the community’s needs. Culturally Specific Services: SIC ensures that our Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) services continue to be culture community specific. This means that the services are not only culturally competent but also tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the client-community members Community Engagement: SIC engages the community in the planning, decision-making, and evaluation processes. We use surveys, focus groups, SDoH Screening and “Community Alerts” tools to gather input from the community and incorporate it into our work. This ensures that the innovations are grounded in the community’s experiences and perspectives. In sum, SIC’s approach to innovation is culturally adaptable in that it is informed by the community, tailored to the community member’s needs, and delivered by staff who share the community member’s culture and language. This approach ensures that the innovations are not only effective but also culturally relevant and respectful.