Empowering Community: Partnership Douglas County
Each community faces challenges in providing resources to help improve the health and well-being of its individuals. Partnership Douglas County was created with the vision of addressing those challenges. They promote a healthy community through education and resource connection.
The current Executive Director, Daria Singer (Winslow), grew up in Douglas County and is passionate about preserving and promoting “the same sense of community” she enjoyed as a youth. With local partners, Daria and her team work to help our community become stronger and healthier.
Partnership Douglas County operates on the fundamental principle that collective action yields greater results than individual efforts. They bring together local government, businesses, non-profits, and residents to enhance the quality of life for everyone.
The Power of Collaboration
What sets Partnership Douglas County apart is its commitment to inclusivity and collaboration. By bringing together diverse organizations – including government officials, businesses of all sizes, non-profit organizations, and engaged citizens – Partnership harnesses the collective wisdom and resources needed to tackle complex challenges.
The staff at Partnership are active voices for health policy and program innovation. They participate in task forces, coalitions and policy boards that impact Douglas County’s quality of life. They take part in the local Board of Health, County Commission and all other meetings necessary to serve as a voice for a healthy Douglas County.
Partnership sponsors The Community Prevention Plan that makes a positive impact on Douglas County residents by thoughtfully following a research-based system to improve the health and well-being of the community. Community Health Needs Assessments are used to create the Prevention Plan. They work closely with healthcare providers and social service agencies to ensure that residents have access to essential services.
Recognizing the importance of education as a cornerstone of community development, Partnership has partnered with schools and educational institutions to enhance learning opportunities. This collaboration extends to community workshops, mentorship programs, and initiatives that promote lifelong learning.
General Partnership Meetings are open to any organization or agency in Douglas County to discuss the needs of the community and upcoming events. They are held the first Wednesday of each month (except July).
Uniting for a Common Purpose
Other nonprofit organizations see Partnership of Douglas County as a coalition of like-minded people who are dedicated to providing much needed services. They oversee and offer numerous grants that help those organizations in their efforts. Partnership offered our local Suicide Prevention Network their first SAPTA (Substance Abuse Prevention, Treatment and Aftercare) grant that enabled them to hire an employee to work with community. It has opened doors for them to have a larger impact on the community.
“Suicide Prevention Network depends on the grants funded through Partnership to work with drug and alcohol and substance abuse and awareness. They provide the necessary funds for the community to promote good mental health. The collaboration Partnership provides our community is vital.” Debbie Posnien, Executive Direction, Suicide Prevention Network.
In addition to supporting other nonprofits, Partnership of Douglas County provides opportunity for growth for all. Through the group for Spanish-speaking women called Fuerza Latina, they offer free ESL classes, refer Spanish-speaking clients to appropriate services, and publish a monthly Spanish newsletter.
Araceli Valadez grew up with Partnership. Her mother was part of Fuerza Latina and brought her to many community events. One of her favorites was working in the Heritage Park community garden. Araceli shares, “As a child, I watched my mother and others work together. It created in me a mindfulness about the importance of giving back to the community.” Today Aracelli gives back as the Prevention Coordinator on the Partnership team.
For Daena Escamilla the ESL classes and Fuerza Latina “opened doors of opportunity for professional growth and personal growth.” She loves that the diversity in the community is reflected in the Partnership offices. “Partnership is kind of like ‘Google’ for Douglas County. It provides so many resources.” Daena currently works as the Assistant Administrator.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As Partnership Douglas County continues to evolve, its focus remains on promoting a healthy community through education and resource connection. Whether you’re a business owner, a resident, or someone passionate about community, there are numerous ways to contribute to Partnership Douglas County‘s mission. Consider volunteering your time, participating in community events, or supporting local organizations that are part of the Partnership network.
Partnership Douglas County exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving positive change at the local level. Partnership Douglas County stands as a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared vision for the future.
