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Livestock Coalition Building – A lot like child’s play
There was always a group of friends I “hung out with” as a child. We not only played together, but we would walk into town together – from where we lived in the country, that was saying something. If we needed “special” permission to do something, we asked together. Kids always know how to work the best angle.
Depending on the request, or the “audience,” we would designate the role of spokesperson, a role that was given to the person deemed most likely to succeed for that particular situation. We understood from an early age that there is strength in numbers. It’s much the same premise behind the state livestock coalition development program.
Why does a coalition work better than a single organization? One organization might hold sway in one venue and another in a different arena. There is also the understanding that if a large group can reach consensus on an issue, there must be validity to their decision, creating a strong foundation for moving forward.
As my group of friends knew, each member of the group brings unique expertise and insight. More importantly today, individuals bring their existing professional relationships. As like-minded organizations form coalitions, they can provide farmers and ranchers with a centralized resource to help them grow their operation and navigate important issues such as understanding and adhering to their state’s regulations. Coalitions can also offer proactive programming to help engage consumers about today’s farmers and animal agriculture.
A central location for seeking assistance, strength in numbers and a wide range of experience and expertise are all reasons why Livestock Coalitions work.
It’s a simple concept... Even a child can figure that out.
Posted by Allyson