Who To Include

Who to include depends upon the purpose and scope of the collaboration.
~ Some collaborations need to have almost unlimited membership. Some others need to be extremely restricted.
~ It is often useful to be more inclusive than exclusive. Sometimes it is possible to mix both inclusive and exclusive collaborations by the use of a general committee or council and adhoc or subcommittees.
~ Restriction can be based on purpose, relationships, geographic, or legal restrictions such as confidentiality.
~ Early on in the process, it can be helpful to avoid inviting individuals who may be particularly disruptive, unless there is an especially skillful facilitator.
~ Later on in the process, after the collaboration has been established, the same person who was considered disruptive, may be able to provide a valuable different perspective on the issue and actually help to strengthen the collaboration.
~ Be careful when you specifically do not invite someone or group because of concerns that they may be too disruptive or present an opposing point of view. This can cause problems than could unravel the process. Be prepared for them to show up on their own or request to be invited. Unless you have a good reason for them to not attend, it is sometimes easier to allow them to attend, and help your facilitator/manager prepare for any possible disruption. Opposing points of view can create energy which can be productively harnessed. Sometimes a few (though not overwhelming) "nay sayers" can actually help the group to focus. Critical Thinkers can add significantly to the process. ("Nay sayers" can also alert you to challenges which may be unknown to you and are "under the radar." If handled correctly, they sometimes can become an asset, and eventually even an ally.)
~ There needs to be a place in the process for all stake holders. It is not necessary to include all stake holders in the collaboration. It is necessary to identify and engage all stake holders if you want genuine lasting success, unless there are legal or safety issues. When there are legal or safety issues, always speak with an attorney and/or law enforcement. (When identifying stake holders, it may be useful to use a search technique such as the one outlined in Open Agenda Conferences.)
"Real listening shows respect. It creates trust. As we listen, we not only gain understanding; we also create the environment to be understood. And when both people understand both perspectives, instead of being on opposite sides of the table looking across at each other, we find ourselves on the same side looking at solutions together." Stephen R. Covey
~ When developing a collaboration, two or three people with a Passion for the Purpose (interest, subject, idea, or cause), should sit down and brainstorm about all the people or organizations that may also have the same interest. Arrange for a place, date, and time, and send letters of invitation. Follow-up with a personal visit or phone call. Over time, when the collaboration allows, invite additional people. Encourage more people with energy and passion to join the collaboration as the group becomes more stable with direction and purpose.
In the case of the Madison County Community Council we started with Agencies, Organizations, Schools (including a local college), Churches (Faith Groups), and Law Enforcement, with a common interest in children's issues. Over time, specific subcommittees were developed. One of these committees has a closed membership because of confidentiality. Other committees are more open, including anyone who wants to help. Over the years the Community Council has grown to over 70 members (which is quite large for a small community), including youth. Our purpose now encompasses both youth and families, and many general community concerns.
~ Typical organizations that may be included as a part of a community collaboration would include: Business Community, Schools and Universities, Health Care (both Mental and Physical), Non Profit Organizations, Elected Officials, Media, Law Enforcement, Corrections, Faith Based Organizations, Cultural and Ethnic Groups, Parents, Youth, Court System, Youth Services, Government Agencies, Early Learning, Military, Parent/Teacher Organizations, Employment Organizations and Agencies, Intergenerational Participation, et. Etc.