The Only Constant Is Change

As leaders work to improve conditions for children and families in communities, the only constant is change.

Change can be scary and complicated, not only for leaders themselves, but also for the communities they serve. The goal of effective leadership is to lead through that change in a collaborative and responsive way.

Parthenia Fields and Jose Orozco

“Conflict causes change and change causes conflict — they work in tandem, yet either way we grow from it.” – Parthenia Fields, Mississippi fellow

Parthenia and Jose describe the importance of open communication, active listening and taking action on what’s been heard to facilitate change in communities. It’s hardest when folks are operating out of fear or don’t understand why change is happening. It’s important to explore one’s own discomfort around change as an opportunity to become a stronger community leader.

Jazmín Irazoqui-Ruiz and Ericka Thompson

“I don’t view conflict as negative, … I actually think it’s a healthy muscle to exercise.” – Jazmín Irazoqui-Ruiz, New Mexico fellow

Jazmín and Ericka reflect on their own experiences with change and how they are building on insights from the fellowship to approach it now. They discuss how community change is hard when it’s top down or everyone isn’t on board. Relationship change needs to be part of the process. Communities know what they need and, as leaders, we should follow them.

Sharde McClure and Jourdan Barnes

“Stability is always key when working with communities.” – Jourdan Barnes, New Orleans fellow

Sharde and Jourdan share how it’s okay to have opposing opinions and different perspectives, as it can lead to great change. They offer tips to consider how long it takes for yourself “to get there” and understand it might take the people you serve a little longer, as well as to be open-minded, move slowly, and create space for thoughts and emotions that come with change.