Taking Action
Deciding where to start when putting the FEL Framework into action may feel overwhelming at first. However, accessible, user-friendly resources can help move the work along more effectively and efficiently. MomsRising, in collaboration with the North Carolina Partnership for Children, developed a comprehensive set of tools to support agencies as they develop cross-sector coalitions and center family voices. For every step in the process, tools have been created to help agencies think through and address challenges that may arise. The tools are divided into four stages:
- Pre-Planning: One of the most important stages in family engagement and leadership work is what happens before family leaders are even invited to the table. These tools can help agencies think through policies and procedures, staffing to engage in this work, how to create fair family leader payment, as well as mindset shifts that need to be considered for authentic family engagement.
- Recruitment: First impressions are everything. How family leaders are invited to the table matters just as much as why they are invited. The tools in this section support authentic relationship-building from the first contact.
- Creating a Welcoming Table: When engaging cross-sector coalitions, it is essential that not only the host agency be welcoming, but all other representatives at the table are welcoming as well. These tools support agencies in gaining buy-in and creating ownership with community agencies and partners..
- Family Leaders Feeling and Flexing their Power: Once the table is set supporting family leaders as they feel and flex their own power is critical to ensuring their voices are heard and that they are guiding the decisions being made. The tools in this section will highlight the significance of stories and how to encourage family leaders to confidently share their stories with decision makers.