The Partnership Project
The Community Bridge-Building Network is made up of many types of companies/corporations. We also have a number of nonprofits seated around the table at any given meeting. Over the years it had been observed that there were notable differences in how each approaches networking, however the end result was always the same, the desire to connect with those in attendance.
In 2011 we began our Partnership Project, whereby a profit company/corporation was matched with a nonprofit. The idea was to build symbiotic relationships that enhance and benefit both parties. A call went out to our members to see who would like to volunteer in this venture. A committee reviewed the submissions and based on specific criteria a match was made.
There were specific guidelines designed to assist in accomplishing our objective. Each participant was provided an opportunity to meet with their match and was given an overview of what each business does through its daily operations. There were onsite visits scheduled at both workplaces. They were asked to find out the similarities and differences on how each does business. They were shown what types of vendors, purveyors, associations, buyers that each utilizes. Each match was asked to look at how they can work together in business and/or the community.
The success of the original project has inspired us to put the call out to our members to see who would like to participate in this round of the Partnership Project. We have had an incredible response. The matches have been made and there are 20 different nonprofits and for profit businesses taking part in this endeavor. In fact, we now have several for-profit companies matched with other for-profits.
Projects
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www.communitybridge-buildingnetwork.com
We are extremely excited to see what type of ideas, relationships and perhaps business comes of this.
Here are some of our participants.
In November 2014, some of the participants in the Partnership Project were able to present their collaborations with some very exciting results. We are truly looking forward to seeing what develops in the months to come!
Mike, Herrmann Unlimited
Beth, Life's Work of Western PA
Terri, American Diabetes Association
Deb, WebbMason
Jennifer, Gateway Rehab
Luke, Merrill Lynch (not pictured)
Cynthia, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank
Rich, Colonial Life
Community Bridge-Building Network
A network unlike any other professional network
Serving Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and the Greater Pittsburgh area
Pittsburgh skyline photo credit: Joyce Scott-Kliber
