MMP Connects: Forward Together
Spring 2024 Sessions Recap!
At the beginning of May, Mass Mentoring Partnership hosted four regional gatherings of MMP Connects- our semi-annual networking and information-sharing meet-up, intended to be a space for program partners to come together for face-to-face collaborative time, with the opportunity to hear from MMP about what is upcoming in our training and event calendar. The four regions consist of: Boston/Greater Boston, Southern Massachusetts, Northern Massachusetts, and Western/Central Massachusetts, and these gatherings were all in-person (special shoutout to our host sites for sharing your spaces with us for the occasion: Huntington Avenue YMCA, YMCA of Metro North, Crossroads’ Camp Wing and Holyoke Public Library).
This year’s theme for MMP Connects was Forward Together, a listening tour on what is working well for MMP partner organizations, what they are wondering about (more on the specifics of this later!), and ideas for how to continue forward, positively and profoundly impacting the lives of the young people in the Commonwealth.
It was also the first time for many to officially meet MMP’s New President and CEO, Dr. Cynthia K. Orellana! Cynthia took time at the beginning of each meeting to share her story- how she got to MMP, why she is excited to be a part of the team and the work, and how she envisions us being able to work together to move forward in creating impact. Her contagious optimism and enthusiasm helped start the meetings on a positive, forward-thinking note. We were thrilled to see so many organizations represented at each gathering across the state; not only did the great turnouts mean full rooms of full minds ready for sharing of ideas, but it really placed an emphasis on how many people are committed to the work being done in the mentoring field, and how we can all support one another to continue to grow.
Going Well! And Wondering How?
After introductions and sharing general updates about each attendee’s organization, most of the MMP Connects session was spent working together in smaller groups on a collaborative exercise. Groups spread out around the room, and each had access to three large sheets of paper. On the top of the first of the three sheets was a question: “What is going well?”; on the top of the second (or middle) sheet was the phrase: “I wonder how to…”; and on the third sheet was simply “Ideas”.
Groups were given time to address each of the prompts. First: what is going well within their organizations? They were asked to jot down thoughts, accomplishments, milestones, and wins.
Second, the prompt ‘I wonder how to…’ was used to reframe how they (and their organizations) look at obstacles or challenges they face. Instead of focusing on the negative (‘we can’t’ or ‘I can’t or ‘I don’t know’), our groups were encouraged to share what they would like to learn more about, beginning with the phrase: “I wonder how to..”.
The third and final sheet provided space for all our participants to share their own responses, reflections, ideas, and suggestions, to support others who may be facing similar obstacles/challenges.
For those participating, it was an exercise in reflection, collaboration, thought-sharing, and problem-solving. For those watching (like myself), it was an inspiring moment to see so many individuals coming together to represent all different types of organizations from all different parts of the state, to share what they are proud of, and what they have learned and accomplished within their organizations. They were able to provide support to their fellow program leaders and members when they were allowed to contribute through shared experiences. The room was buzzing with energy, and the information that was gathered was a great summation of what a collaborative brainstorming session is all about!
Curious about what’s going well? Wonder how to find out what was discussed? Well, we are happy to share that we compiled all the responses into one document- and are pleased to share with you here!
Thank you to everyone who joined us at one of the sessions! We appreciate your openness, your willingness to share ideas, and your continued commitment to learning.
Missed out on attending one of the Spring MMP Connects Sessions? Don’t worry- MMP Connects will be back this fall! Stay tuned to our event calendar for when the Fall sessions are announced and open for registration.