In a Meeting

CONSTELLATION MODEL FOR COLLABORATION

The Simcoe County Food Council uses a governance model that is action-oriented. The Constellation Model for Collaboration arose out of the need to help multiple organizations work collaboratively, and to support the collaboration without having to create a new organization to direct how the work should be undertaken.

The main principles of this model are:

  • A clear reason for collaboration exists.

  • Collaborative work satisfies the individual needs of participants

  • Governance is light. Work is directed by partially self-governing collaborative teams.

  • Structure is light. Teams dissolve when the work is done.

  • Leadership is present at the table, meaning action which has impact can be taken.

Carrots
A group of women at a business meeting

OUR CONSTELLATIONS

Our constellations or working tables:

  • Are self-directed, but relate their work to a Magnetic Attractor.

  • May establish a Stewardship Group to enhance oversight or balance power.

  • Are dynamic, emerge, do their work, and then dissolve.

  • Are ‘action’ focused, as opposed to ‘talk’ focused.

OUR WORKING

TABLES
 

  • Food literacy and food programs

  • Food banks

  • Local food and agriculture

  • The Community Garden Network

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS
 

  • Poverty Reduction Task Group

  • AgriTourism Working Group

  • Eat Well to Excel