Natural Collisions

Coact Detroit
  • 5.0 (3)
  • NON-PROFIT

Compelling conversations about the challenges and opportunities impacting the nonprofit sector in Detroit and SE Michigan.

  1. Cross-Sector Collaboration | NC #22

    MAR 31

    Cross-Sector Collaboration | NC #22

    Collaboration across sectors is essential for tackling complex challenges like affordable housing and community development. In this episode of Natural Collisions, experts at the forefront of cross-sector partnerships share insights on what makes collaborations successful - the opportunities and the challenges. Through real-world stories, we explore how nonprofits, businesses, and policymakers can work together to build stronger, more resilient communities. Whether you're in the nonprofit world, policymaking, or passionate about Detroit’s future, this conversation offers practical takeaways for driving meaningful impact. GUESTS: Shari Williams, Director of Equitable Neighborhood Planning, Detroit Future City - https://detroitfuturecity.com/ Heidi Reijm, Principal Community Development Specialist, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago - https://www.chicagofed.org/ Madhavi Reddy, Executive Director, Community Development Advocates of Detroit - https://cdad-online.org/ To find out more about Co.act Detroit visit - https://coactdetroit.org/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome 01:54 - Guest Introductions 03:42 - Cross-Sector Collaboration Explained 12:03 - Affordable Housing Crisis 27:37 - Equitable Collaborative Efforts 39:50 - Final Thoughts & Insights

    49 min
  2. Co.act Detroit’s Five Year Anniversary | NC #21

    JAN 8

    Co.act Detroit’s Five Year Anniversary | NC #21

    In this special episode of Natural Collisions, we celebrate Co.act Detroit's five-year anniversary, recorded live at the historic Jam Handy in Detroit. Join us as we highlight the incredible work of nonprofit organizations from across Southeast Michigan. We explore how Co.act Detroit has supported collaboration, innovation, and impact in our communities through speeches and interviews with leaders and changemakers. This milestone is not just about the past five years—it's about inspiring a shared vision for the future. Don’t miss this inspiring reflection on what’s possible when nonprofits unite for a greater cause. Speakers: Kelly Brittain, Vice President of Impact at the Children’s Foundation - https://yourchildrensfoundation.org/ Rashard Dobbins, Executive Director at Class Act Detroit - https://www.classactdetroit.org/ Amanda Andere, CEO at Funders Together to End Homelessness - https://www.funderstogether.org/ Interviews: Kourtney Neloms - Catalyst Consulting 313 Tony Russell - Detroit Community Solutions Shadora Ford - Destined For Greatness David Silver - Detroit Horse Power Adriene Bulger Amanda Holiday - Congress of Communities George Cole - Act Now Services Jackie Dunlap - Teachers Supporting Teachers T. Yarnell Ball - Read Art Loud To find out more about Co.act Detroit visit - https://coactdetroit.org/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome 01:38 - Welcome from Allandra Bulger 03:15 - Kelly Brittain 07:47 - Rashard Dobbins 13:08 - Amanda Andere 21:37 - Allandra’s Thank You 23:29 - Celebration Interviews

    27 min
  3. Macomb County Collaboration | NC #20

    11/25/2024

    Macomb County Collaboration | NC #20

    In this episode of Natural Collisions, we spotlight the vital work of Macomb County nonprofits making a difference for young people in need. Join us for an engaging conversation about the impact of partnerships to transform young lives. Our “colliders” share inspiring stories of collaboration, challenges, and triumphs in serving youth and families. Discover how their organizations provide essential support, foster hope, and build stronger communities through compassionate action. GUESTS: Joella E. Bush, Executive Director at Giana House - https://giannahouse.org/ Fred Huebener, Board Member at Macomb Foster Closet - https://macombfostercloset.org/ More information about Macomb County is available at - https://advancingmacomb.com/ To find out more about Co.act Detroit visit - https://coactdetroit.org/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome 01:32 - Guest Introductions 05:33 - Personal Journeys and Missions 12:33 - Youth Service Collaborations in Macomb 33:41 - Collaborative Models in Macomb 43:58 - Final Thoughts & Next Steps

    49 min
  4. Civic Engagement & Public Policy | NC #19

    10/28/2024

    Civic Engagement & Public Policy | NC #19

    In this episode of Natural Collisions, we explore the critical intersection of civic engagement and public policy for nonprofits. What are the most pressing civic issues nonprofits could be focusing on today? How can nonprofits effectively engage to advocate for the communities they serve while remaining compliant with regulations? The “colliders” for this conversation discuss the challenges and opportunities nonprofit organizations face during election seasons while offering strategies for building coalitions that amplify the voices of underrepresented communities. GUESTS: Joan Gustafson, External Affairs Officer, Michigan Nonprofit Association Regina Bell, Chief Policy Officer, Council of Michigan Foundations Kamilia K. Landrum, Executive Director, Detroit Branch NAACP For voting information on the upcoming election visit - https://mi.gov/vote To find out more about Co.act Detroit visit - https://coactdetroit.org/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome 01:29 - Guest Introductions 05:22 - Civic Engagement Personal Stories 14:52 - Nonprofit's Role in Civic Engagement 26:17 - Collaboration & Coalitions 31:43 - Final Thoughts & Next Steps

    42 min
  5. How We Collaborate Playbook | NC #18

    09/30/2024

    How We Collaborate Playbook | NC #18

    Scarcity and competition hinder the ability to collaborate. While those worries are normal, they stop organizations with common goals from building strong partnerships. How do we change that? The Dovetail “How We Collaborate” Playbook is designed to provide a framework for organizations and teams to work together more effectively. It helps establish shared values, language, and practices for collaboration, ensuring that everyone is aligned on goals and approaches, equitably. Access the “How We Collaborate” Playbook here - https://dovetaildetroit.org/playbook-trilogy/how-we-collaborate/ The “colliders” for this conversation bring a wealth of experience in creating shared strategies for collective action and community development in Detroit & SE Michigan. They have been valuable partners in the development of the “How We Collaborate” Playbook. GUESTS: Heather Nugen, Director of Systems Transformation at Michigan Community Resources Shelley Danner, Co-Founder & Program Director at Challenge Detroit Charnae Sanders, Program Manager at Coact Detroit The “How We Collaborate” Playbook was created in a partnership between Michigan Community Resources and Co.act Detroit. It emerged from meaningful conversations during the “2021 Detroit Capacity Building Forum: How We Collaborate.” It also draws upon ideas shared locally and nationally about advancing equity and collaboration in the nonprofit sector. To access the 2021 Detroit Capacity Building Forum: How We Collaborate visit - https://padlet.com/micommunityresources/how-we-collaborate-2021-detroit-capacity-building-forum-bkxqn5rbm5holk7w To find out more about Co.act Detroit visit - https://coactdetroit.org/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome 01:41 - Guest Introductions 03:22 - Purpose of Playbook 05:27 - Collaboration in Detroit 08:08 - Challenge Detroit 12:30 - The Playbook in Action 24:58 - Best Use of the Playbook 32:16 - Final Thoughts & Next Steps

    40 min
  6. Prioritizing Rest in the Nonprofit Sector | NC #17

    08/26/2024

    Prioritizing Rest in the Nonprofit Sector | NC #17

    Can nonprofit organizations become workplace environments that nurture rest and wellness? This episode marks the conclusion of our Fund Well Series, which has focused on the importance of funding wellbeing for nonprofit leaders and teams. For more conversations about wellbeing and rest, check out Co.act's Nonprofit Wellbeing Series and the Virtual Resource Library here: https://coactdetroit.org/resources/virtual/. The “colliders” for this conversation have joined from across the globe - Washington State and London, England - to bring their unique and “radical” ideas to the Co.act Detroit community. This candid conversation challenges the grind and burnout culture prevalent in the nonprofit workplace. GUESTS: Jodi Nishioka, Co-Executive Director at BIPOC ED Coalition WA - https://bipocedcoalitionwa.org/ Kate Oliver, Radical Rest Network - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/kate-oliver-96b6a6162 Read Kate Oliver’s blog post on Radical Rest - https://www.anewdirection.org.uk/blog/radical-rest-for-the-cultural-sector To join the Radical Rest Network visit - https://forms.gle/kaLvPzRRQmgbyQaS7 To learn more about the mentioned book, “Rest is Resistance” by Tricia Hersey, visit - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/tricia-hersey/rest-is-resistance/9780316365536/ To find out more about Co.act Detroit visit - https://coactdetroit.org/ Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome 01:11 - Guest Introductions 01:57 - Personal Jouneys 07:54 - Rest is Unique 12:33 - Benefits of Sabbaticals 37:32 - The Radical Rest Network 46:07 - Final Thoughts & Next Steps

    49 min
  7. Detroit Capacity Building Forum: How We Invest | NC #16

    06/27/2024

    Detroit Capacity Building Forum: How We Invest | NC #16

    This special recap Natural Collisions episode highlights the 2022 Detroit Capacity Building Forum. The forum was focused on one thing: investing differently in our nonprofits and our communities. Conversations about investing often center on funders and those with financial power. When we reframe the conversation to include nonprofit employees, consultants, organizers, social justice advocates, and community residents, we open the way for transformative possibilities. The goals of the Detroit Capacity Building Forum were: 1 - Explore how our ecosystem can invest differently in organizations, ideas, and people 2 - Honor those working to create more equitable funding landscapes 3 - Create a playbook that redefines investing and guides movements now and for the future The Detroit Capacity Building Forum was a collaboration between Co.act Detroit and Michigan Community Resources. Hosted by Orlando Bailey. To learn more about some of the resources shared during the forum, visit coactdetroit.org/documents/dcbf-resources. Sessions: 00:00 - Welcome 02:33 - 12 Recommendations for Detroit Funders 19:59 - Lightning Talk with Lisa Leverette - Nonprofits & Allies 30:02 - Shifting Funder-Nonprofit Power Dynamics 51:22 - Lightning Talk with Vu Le - Nonprofits & Allies 01:10:03 - Closing Information To find out more about Co.act Detroit visit - https://coactdetroit.org/

    1h 11m
  8. Nonprofit Leaders & Philanthropic Funding Collide | NC #15

    05/29/2024

    Nonprofit Leaders & Philanthropic Funding Collide | NC #15

    The Nonprofit-Funder Dialogue Series was designed to build trust and challenge traditional roles and power dynamics between funders and regional nonprofit leaders. The “colliders” for this conversation were all involved in a series of conversations between funding organizations and nonprofit leaders. These “brave spaces” provided an opportunity for nonprofits and philanthropic foundations to have a candid discussion to develop deeper, more trusting relationships in Michigan’s nonprofit sector. The Nonprofit-Funder Dialogue Series was a collaboration between the Dorothy A. Johnson Center at Grand Valley State University and Co.act Detroit, with facilitation provided by The Eureka Group. For more information visit - https://coactdetroit.org/npfd/ 00:00 - Welcome 02:18 - Guest Introductions 05:18 - Nonprofit-Funder Dialogue Series Explained 07:19 - Power Dynamics between Nonprofit & Funders 14:35 - Collaborative Efforts Creating Conversations 17:43 - Shared Recommendations & Discussion 35:50 - Final Thoughts & Next Steps GUESTS: Maria Salinas, Executive Director - https://www.congressofcommunities.com/ Lesley Slavitt, Executive Director - https://johnsoncenter.org/ Kyle Caldwell, President & CEO - https://www.michiganfoundations.org/ Tameka Ramsey, Director - https://www.tramseyllc.com/ Allandra Bulger, Executive Director - https://coactdetroit.org/ To find out more about Co.act Detroit visit - https://coactdetroit.org/

    44 min
See All (23)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Compelling conversations about the challenges and opportunities impacting the nonprofit sector in Detroit and SE Michigan.

Information

  • Creator
    Coact Detroit
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Natural Collisions