This is a quote I wrote down from a meeting earlier this week. I find it an interesting piece of information. Over many years I have been involved in a variety of teams, collaboratives and boards that were responsible for improving programs and services for children and families. I have also been connected in a number of ways to local families who are the customers to those services.
 
What I have discovered in those experiences is that many programs and services fail to deliver their promise due to implementation. The planning and detail work (what Alissa referenced last week as “mundane”) aren’t sexy, exciting, or recognized and are often ignored. But what Alissa appropriately emphasized was the great value it brings to our work. Indeed our collective success rests upon it.
 
High quality implementation must become a priority focus of our time and energy if we hope to significantly change anything. Implementation is actually the action behind the idea.
 
So my hats go off to all our local partners whose job it is to implement and truly partner and serve families. I hope you know the value your positive attitude and approach bring to the work. May you receive all the training, support and kudos you deserve. Never lose track of the truth that the only way a family knows that something has made positive change is because of you.