Collective Impact
We support 3 communities in Nova Scotia to work together to tackle tough social problems using the Collective Impact framework.
What if there was a better way
to build stronger communities
for all?
Our work is about building relationships for a better future. We tackle tough social problems by bringing together residents, governments, community organizations, and businesses in a way that honours their unique perspectives and valuable contributions. We connect community changemakers to bridge divides and identify opportunities for collective impact. Despite many attempts to address longstanding, systemic issues, we know we can do better—by working together with respect, trust and transparency. This is what Inspiring Communities is all about.
Find out more: Collective Impact in NS Atlantic Network for Social Change
Our Areas of Focus Find out more >
We support change efforts through:
Network Building
We help identify, connect and support social changemakers working towards a better future for their community. Actions at the community level collectively affect change at the system level.
Shared Learning
We focus on using data, research and community input to guide our process, capture and communicate what’s working (or not), and shape decision making. We share what we learn across communities, and with changemakers and policymakers.
Collaborative Partnerships
We work with others to align efforts for change. We are stronger together and no one group, sector, or organization can do it alone.
Where We Work
Inspiring Communities is an evolving network of networks in Nova Scotia and across Atlantic Canada. We began as a network of Collective Impact initiatives in Dartmouth North (Between the Bridges), the Northside in Cape Breton (Northside Rising) and Digby. We have since become a regional node in an emerging national network for social innovation (Social Innovation Canada) and are holding space as a backbone for an ecosystem of changemakers in Atlantic Canada. This network model means that we are able to learn from our experiences across the communities we are supporting in Nova Scotia, and from those we are connected to in the Atlantic region and nationally. We aim to share learning across diverse groups and across divides to build connections for greater impact.
Our Values Find out more >
Today, more than ever, we need to work differently. Together we can find better ways of thinking that lead to better ways of creating positive change. The Inspiring Communities approach focuses on taking the time to develop trusted relationships, from which real change can grow. We are working to change embedded structures, power dynamics and approaches to problem-solving - that can't, and won't, be done overnight.
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Collaboration
The issues we tackle are complex and cannot be solved by any one person, group or sector. We work with others whenever possible. -
Diversity and Equity
We believe in respectful engagement by nurturing diversity and celebrating existing community strengths. We embrace an equity-driven approach as we look for meaningful solutions to closing opportunity gaps in the pursuit of social inclusion. -
Abundance
We believe that all communities have a wealth of assets and we work through a lens of abundance - not scarcity. By connecting and amplifying existing efforts, and supporting new ways of working, we can increase our collective resources and impact. -
Trust
We go slow to go far. We know that the change that is needed will rely on trusted relationships. -
Take Risks
Real change requires an openness to trying new things. We believe in careful experimentation and investing in learning along the way - in terms of what works well, and what doesn't.