Community-asset mapping can be a launchpad for stronger partnerships and smarter resource allocation—but only if the process is as intentional as the map itself. It is easy to get lost in the forest and lose sight of the big picture if you aren’t careful, especially
Healthy networks don’t happen by accident. They are intentionally designed ecosystems that evolve through clear goals, purposeful structure, and a relentless focus on relationships. Drawing on ten key topics from VNL’s Insights Library, below are condensed lessons you can apply today—whether you’re launching a new
In complex systems like public health, early childhood, and behavioral health, coordination is everything—but it’s hard. More and more communities are turning to hubs as central connectors to align stakeholders, share resources, and drive systems change. However, without a clear picture of the network, hubs
Communities and coalitions rely on strong relationships to create change—but those relationships are often invisible without the right tools to map and measure them. Social network analysis (SNA) can shine a light on these connections, but understanding and acting on the data requires more than
Community asset mapping is a powerful practice embraced by nonprofits, public health agencies, local governments, and coalitions to illuminate and mobilize the inherent strengths within their communities. Instead of solely focusing on needs or deficits, this strengths-based approach builds upon what’s already working, fostering resilience
Last week, I opened a newsletter that hit me with a concept that immediately clicked—and not just because I’ve worked in SaaS. The article, written by Isaac Peiris, dives into a core idea from product strategy called Time to Value (TTV)—the amount of time it
Community Asset Mapping is an essential tool for anyone looking to build stronger, more connected, and more resilient communities. Rather than focusing on deficits or gaps, this strengths-based methodology helps identify and map the resources, relationships, and capacities that already exist—offering a more empowering path
Our first SNA case study explores network resilience and fragmentation across 43 Florida Healthcare Collaboratives. Here’s what they found.
This comprehensive guide explores the essential frameworks, digital platforms, and proven methodologies that power successful community engagement initiatives. From time-tested frameworks like IAP2’s Spectrum of Public Participation to cutting-edge digital solutions for network mapping and collaborative decision-making, we’ll examine tools that help organizations move beyond
Creating a strong community engagement plan is critical for building trust, promoting equity, and achieving long-lasting impact. Whether you’re coordinating a public health campaign, implementing a city planning initiative, or launching a nonprofit program, the success of your work depends on the depth and quality
Click one of the links below to download a free resource to strengthen your community partnerships, collaborative network, and strategic ecosystem.
Advice for building, managing, and assessing cross-sector networks or coalitions of partners.
A template to map the connections and interactions between key stakeholders in your community.
A worksheet and guide to help you think through and develop your network or ecosystem strategy.
Get monthly updates on VNL news, new research, funding opportunities, and other resources related to network and ecosystem mapping and management.
