Week 3 : Social Innovation Forum

The Social Innovation Forum truly embraces the meaning of collaboration. Now into my third week at the organization, I can clearly see this. SIF refers to it’s staff as a team – and it’s easy to do such when there are only 13 members (including the three interns). Although each team member has their individual title, everyone works hard to support one another and meet common goals. When looking at the SIF Team schedule, you will find that almost every hour is booked with group meetings of team members seeking advice, support, or to collaborate on an effort. As I begin my independent projects, I am shadowing and working with multiple team members in different roles including events and communications. I am constantly referred to others for guidance or suggestion. There is a great deal of trust in others’ knowledge and gifts. The office’s seating arrangement supports this leader/follower dynamic as well. The desks are short-walled cubicles so that everyone can communicate easily. My two fellow interns and I sit with the organization’s executive director. She is constantly reaching out with work support, but also trying to get to know me on a personal level as well.

The Social Innovation Forum’s strength lies in creating relationships. One motto that has appeared in office conversation often is: ‘Better relationships, better impact’. The SIF team is very close-knit, and it has been such a pleasure to get to know each and every co-worker. Once a month, there is a planned lunch for the SIF and our co-working members (the small starter nonprofits we rent office space to). Since last month was Mental Health Awareness Month, the lunch included a meditation, mindfulness tips, and a healthy meal. These foster interesting conversations to bond not only our team but the whole office as a whole. This past week, our executive director also planned a special event during our lunch break. As a team, we went to play with the puppies at Government Center’s patios and were treated to ice cream. Our director said it was a needed break after the stress of launching the 2018-2019 application, and a great way to spend time together outside of the office. There was even a group selfie taken in the elevator! I am incredibly lucky to be a part of this team – one that values everyone’s opinion, and one that fosters trust and support. Although one might have a “higher” title, everyone is treated equally.