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3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

Number of replies: 39

At this point you have started to talk to others about your project, you have been gathering your thoughts and some documentation, you have started looking at the plans of work.... how will you put this information into practice?  What helps to clarify what you want to do?  What gets in the way?  Take a few minutes to share your thoughts. (Post a response and respond to two colleagues...)

Add your objectives to your program plan in Box.

In reply to First post

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Melissa Spoon -
So with my grant we have a plan of work that lays out what our requirements are. I am finding that it is really nice to look at and provides me with clarification on what exactly I am suppose to do. As I have been look at the plan of work, somethings feel like really simple to be listed, but it is also good to make sure that nothing is missed. Learning all about Extension and all the programs out there it is important to not do work that is already being done.
For me clarification comes when I think about the end product. I got feedback the other day that I should take a step back and talk to teachers about what they want before I work on a project. In part it was good advice, but for me I would like to know the process of how to develop a teaching program for teachers, before I go and talk to them. It was hard to hear feedback that was negative to what I wanted to do, but it was also good to remember that constructive criticism can be very helpful when you are open to it. Focus is helpful when it comes to the plan of work. We can let our minds go in 500 directions and so focus is good. Hope everyone's projects are going well!
In reply to Melissa Spoon

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Celeste Carmichael -
These are really good reflections Melissa! Part of this program is to build a reflective practice where you write, reflect on, and move forward. And part of that is understanding what is around you. Feedback can stick in the craw sometimes :) but don't take it personally - consider it a gift to know what others are thinking! I am reading a book right now called THINK AGAIN by Adam Grant...its a great reminder that feedback and the data all around us helps us to navigate...if we let it. He provides lots of examples/case studies of success by companies that create multiple hypothesis and test them rather than those that have a set idea and stick with it. Focus is good - balanced with an open mind for listening and looking. And not getting things perfect is expected...try things and keep on keeping on :). Thank you for sharing this!
In reply to Celeste Carmichael

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Melissa Spoon -
Thanks! I was pretty down and lost my motivation a little bit, but had to remember that feedback can be taken different ways and it is important to see other peoples points of view. I will have to take a look at that book, sounds interesting. Thanks Celeste!
In reply to Melissa Spoon

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Rexx-Javier Isley -
I can relate to this experience a LOT, particularly because my background is in community work, fundraising, and outreach more than transportation.
I think it's really easy for organizations broadly (it's a systemic thing, your experience is very common!) to come in and say, "Here's how we're going to help"...which can sometimes land poorly with the audience.

It can be hard - and creates additional steps - but I find asking, "How can we help you reach your goals?" can open up the conversation more, and create a more robust and collaborative experience. This not only establishes trust, but it also allows for a celebration of ideas and a more dynamic process.
I also like to do my homework in advance, and it's never a bad thing to have a notebook full of ideas, or some tabs open with possible troubleshooting solutions.

(Additionally, I've had a lot of corporate gigs over the years, and learned that planting a seed of an idea and letting a boss run with it was sometimes easier than trying to wrestle for ownership of a concept. I've always been more about the results than the credit, and that's a blessing when it comes to serving the community!)
In reply to Rexx-Javier Isley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Mallory Illsley -
I think the advice Celeste gave is extremely valuable regarding not taking things personally. Sometimes, because we are so passionate about what we do and our projects can feel like personal accomplishments, that when something goes wrong or someone has a negative take on it, we take it personally and it's hard to overcome that emotion or move on right away.
Also, I can relate firsthand to RJ's statement about working with people that aren't as receptive to an outside idea. I had a boss that was extreme with this behavior, even though it may be a good idea, they went to extreme lengths not to implement anything that was suggested to them. At first, this was a very difficult situation for me to understand but as RJ said, I also learned how to plant a seed and that this sometimes is a much easier way to accomplish the overall goal. That is a great attitude that RJ has which is, it's more about the end goal and serving the community.
In reply to Rexx-Javier Isley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Meghan Kerr -
Hi RJ. I like your thoughts on asking "how can I help you reach your goals." It does seem like asking for ideas at the beginning would help to create a more collaborative process. I also love the idea of having a list of ideas and open tabs to draw from when confronted with a change in direction or an unexpected reaction to a plan in a meeting. I find that I can go a little too far in that direction though; letting myself try to accommodate all of the ideas when realistically, some are not very feasible. I feel like I need to find a balance between trying to direct a project and letting it develop all on its own.
In reply to Rexx-Javier Isley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Ryan Kincaid -
Those are helpful insights. I have struggled in the past with letting go of an idea/letting someone else take the lead - in part because I'm just so darn excited about it, and sometimes because I've thought it out a lot, or done my research and I worry/don't trust others to put in the due diligence to make it the best it could be. I'm learning the importance of buy-in as we work through implementation of the volunteer involvement process in my county - there's been a lot of pushback from volunteers, so we're trying to slow down and do a little at a time. I'm excited that for this initiative - the cat/kitten (and other) SPIN club(s), I'm starting with interests that the youths have expressed, and filling a gap they see - I think I'll have a more positive response since it's something the youths seem to want, and pairs well with a community need (the humane society gets overrun with cats and kittens in the spring and need more foster families); it should be a great learning opportunity for everyone!
In reply to First post

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Rexx-Javier Isley -
I've been reaching out to partner organizations in transportation over the last few weeks, and honestly, poor communication or lack of capacity is one of the biggest hurdles.
One organization gave a very brusque response, "We are not interested in using our very limited staffing to meet at this time" - but at least that informed me to pivot and move on.
Organizations that don't respond, need to be contacted several times, and so forth keep me "kicking the can down the road" instead of focusing on the work ahead.
It's not ideal, but at least a firm "No" tells me I'm not wasting time - my own or otherwise.
In reply to Rexx-Javier Isley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Celeste Carmichael -
It's all data :). There is definitely a tension between assessing and moving...and (good to remember) that is normal - need to do both. The other thought I have from your comment is - it can feel challenging to find a good contact - it takes persistence.
In reply to Rexx-Javier Isley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Melissa Spoon -
RJ, I can totally understand that. I need to set up meetings with schools and staff, but with it being summer vacation it is hard to get a hold of the right person. Thankfully I have been lucky and gotten responses back from a few. I 100% agree that it is frustrating to not have a solid response. Like you said, if it is a no then say that so that you do not waste resources calling them later on. Good luck, I hope you have more luck!!
In reply to Rexx-Javier Isley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Christina Nadolne -
Hi Rexx,

You bring up a good point with having hurdles. In our minds, sometimes we think something is as simple as "send an email" or "make a phone call". We don't always anticipate the fact that you may not get an answer right away.
And even talking to whom we thought would be appropriate people may not direct in the right direction.
In a program that had initial great success, we moved to another center. We spoke with the director and decided a Saturday morning would be great for a program. When not a single person showed up, we spoke to an employee that works at the center and he said; programs on Saturday mornings never work. People in this town won't go to them.
So, the hurdles will sometimes have you speaking to someone else that may help in the long run.
In reply to First post

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Mallory Illsley -
I have one high school that already wants to start a school wide composting initiative that I have had correspondence and meetings with. My thought process is using this guide to help their school gain the knowledge they need and support they need to apply the steps and continue on with composting. They have asked me to hold an assembly for their entire school this fall, which is intimidating, to help explain the importance of composting. Because my grant/ position can only provide educational support, they will have to ensure they continue to engage students interest in the process and have willing participants to carry out the initiative. This may be a struggle as sometimes clubs dissolve or don't have effective leadership.
With one school going to participate, I was hoping to use them as a model, where both myself and the school itself, could broadcast the changes it is making to improve waste reduction by use of sustainable practices. Outreach such as social media, flyers, and direct programming with other schools could be a way to show them they could make this change as well.
In reply to Mallory Illsley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Melissa Spoon -
Mallory,
That sounds great that you have a school willing to start the process! I am working on contacting schools and have a few meetings setup that will hopefully work out. I totally agree that it is intimidating. Finding the right person to get as inspired about the project as you is one of the hardest things I think. I would love to go get gardens started in our schools here and hopefully get in touch with the right people. Good luck on the project, looks like you are off to an amazing start.
In reply to Melissa Spoon

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Mallory Illsley -
Thank you very much! Also, I feel our projects are similar in the way that we'd like to see an environmental change in the schools. Your project focused on gardens and mine, on composting, which go hand in hand. Like you stated, a big challenge is going to be finding someone as passionate about the project as you and keeping that passion and education going within the school after our part is over.
In reply to Mallory Illsley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Meghan Kerr -
Hi Mallory,

That's so great that you already have a school that is motivated to start a program with you! And your idea to use them as a model sounds great! What a success already and a good opportunity to develop your program. I feel like getting schools on board must be one of the most difficult parts of the equation.
In reply to Mallory Illsley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Vicki Fleming -
Hi Mallory,
I think one school is a perfect place to pilot. It will get a lot of information and the students will have a ton of insight. And, yes, so much fodder to move forward. Photos for social media, quotes from participants and don't forget it will be so energizing to you to see something come to fruition.
In reply to Mallory Illsley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Ryan Kincaid -
It's good to start small, and then you can see what works and what doesn't and revise before moving on to the next one. Did you have the assembly yet? How did it go?
In reply to Mallory Illsley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Joshua Perry -
Hi Mallory,

That sounds like a great plan! Sounds like you have a very clear lay out with how you want to go about your program! Just wanted to comment on being intimidated by doing an assembly and that I completely understand where you're coming from with that. Public speaking in front of a large audience like that can be nerve wracking. But I find once you dive into the topic and get rolling it is like the audience isn't even there.
In reply to First post

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Meghan Kerr -
I feel like I'm very slowly going through the process of program development and because my program isn't well defined, I am reluctant to make any decisions without a lot of feedback from the master gardener volunteers themselves. I have had in depth conversation with a few of the volunteers and I know there is interest and passion for working with on youth gardening initiatives. I think a lot of what I've been throwing around in my own head is how to get more involvement and commitment from the group in general. I'm planning a meeting for the third week of September to get an idea of interest and brainstorm programs and hopefully get a focus group for youth gardening out of the meeting. We're going to ask that people bring some of the harvest from their own gardens and we'll have a salsa party. (There is a kitchen in the learning center at our office.) I'm hoping the promise of fun will bring a lot of folks out to the meeting. Hopefully that goes well and we'll keep moving forward. We also have a brand new nutrition person on staff and I hope to involve her or join our programs because I think nutrition and gardens go hand in hand.  
In reply to Meghan Kerr

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Rexx-Javier Isley -

One strategy I use in outreach is going for groups and organizations that already have "buy-in" or reason to be looking for the same things I am - engagement.
It's the beginning of the school year, perhaps there are Boy Scout and Girl Scouts in your area looking to work on final projects, and they could collaborate in the process. Honor Society, other non-profit organizations, and even college applicants in general often have a volunteer expectation or "requirement", and getting youth who already have a reason to complete these experiences can perhaps motivate some of the adults to collaborate further. (Additionally, sometimes when people "have to" do volunteer work, they find that they enjoy it, and continue even after any incentives dissipate.)

People have a tendency to assume other groups are a timesink or competition, when the reality is that a lot of these organizations are already well-connected to people who value the same things we're working towards! Even if they themselves cannot commit, often they will know several other people and organizations they can spread the word to, or folks they can nominate as good contacts to follow up with.

Youth groups generally are a good start, but there also might be community and resource centers, services that help with families and childcare, science and nature clubs in the local school districts, or even child care services looking to do field trips or have guests to do on-site demonstrations! (For example, our CCE was at an event the day before Mother's Day, so seed planter demos for kids and families were a HUGE hit.)

In reply to Rexx-Javier Isley

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Ernie Francis -
It is great to reach out to your local community, I need to really think local and start small when reaching out to local clubs or community foundations. I am still new to grant-writing.

Advertising as opportunities for people to get college credit, scholarships or scout badges is a great idea! :)
In reply to Meghan Kerr

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Christina Nadolne -
HI Meghan,
I think going slow is perfectly acceptable. Some of the concepts may take some time and it is better to work through them, then to rush and not make good progress.
Even new people can have great ideas and I think it is great to include her.
In reply to Meghan Kerr

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Joshua Perry -
I'm kind of going through a similar situation. My project depends on some possible uncertainties coming down the pipe in the future. So with that being said I am finding it hard to make executive decisions on the project until I hear back from my direct supervisor and other colleagues. Even further the project will take up a sizable amount of space on campus which could impact other program areas so making sure there's communication between all parties I am finding to be very important.
In reply to Joshua Perry

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Harrison Tobi -
Josh, I feel like we often hit similar obstacles. I have multiple projects coming up that I have alerted other colleagues of, but I feel like they just forget about it immediately, and then when the time actually comes to implement the projects, they will act shocked. I try very hard to constantly communicate with my staff and other team;s staff regarding my needs and theirs and how we can work together, but I think larger action in the form of large staff meetings needs to be implemented. For example, the issues we had this summer with multiple programs at SCMELC were a clear indication of the need for much better communication. I sometimes feel like some teams operate under the "do first, ask for forgiveness later", which had massive negative implications impacting other teams. Communication is so important. That being said Josh, I am glad the two of us have good communication at SCMELC. I think we are helping create a more open atmosphere there, but it's slow. Hopefully, we can have some SCMELC staff meetings this winter to help improve communication between teams.
In reply to First post

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Christina Nadolne -
The good thing about program development on your time, (with a little bit of a timeline) is working through things when you can. I think it is important to include programs that have a similar process or goals. Penn State has a similar program, so reaching out to them to not "reinvent the wheel" would be a good start. Although they may be working with different people, they may have some good insight.
Also, doing due diligence with research is paramount. After having preliminary outline, speaking informally with school/community leaders to answer some questions that will help direct our objectives, and goals.
Also, brainstorming with different peers and stakeholders really can help direct.
In reply to Christina Nadolne

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Vicki Fleming -
I agree Chris! Having the benefit of other programs to model after is such a great place to start and we are so lucky in extension to have such a wide range of work to tap into. In 4-H we "steal" each other's programs all the time and it is so great to start with that and then see where it takes you and circle back to see if there were similar wins and losses by the original inventor.
In reply to Christina Nadolne

Re: DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Harrison Tobi -
Hi Christina, I agree that we don't need to "reinvent the wheel". I think this statement also pertains to you mentioning the need to do research. A lot of the issues we face were faced by someone else. It might not be the exact same scenerio, such as my work is fisheries and I am trying to replace old equipment but I could use an example from an ag program looking to replace old tractors, and riff of how they approached their problem. Or even better, through my research I find someone with the exact same problem. Not that we can't learn from other people's mistakes, which is something we might uncover via research, but I think we can also learn from other peoples' successes and use their methods to help with our objectives. Also, brainstorming with peers can be so helpful. Sometimes approaching someone who is not as emotionally invested in your problem allows them to provide more logical feedback.
In reply to First post

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Vicki Fleming -
The objectives are really helpful in narrowing down the work. Since I am looking at a project that is likely to grow and evolve I know that I want to start small (manageable) and work my way up to something that might be more comprehensive and shareable (major lofty goals). I think what gets in the way is that the objectives are not super tangible. How will I truly measure outcomes?
In reply to Vicki Fleming

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by BRITTANY NAUMANN -
I think the nature of DEIB work is so very personal it is hard to measure outcomes in a way we typically think of. It would have to be self-reported as it is a lot of self-work. Very important work but I can see and feel the frustration in this because our society is so data driven and wants tangible results. I feel like because it is self-work, self-reported growth should be perfectly acceptable - things like increase in awareness of types of discrimination, willingness to speak up in uncomfortable situations, understanding types of privileges, etc.
In reply to First post

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Ryan Kincaid -
I appreciated "beginning with the end in mind" - really thinking about the goals and outcomes I hope to accomplish - relating to local and state plans of work/reporting as well as the specific SPIN club(s) I hope to implement in our county. Also, I'm glad I did an interest survey to determine what the youths really want. With the cat/kitten club, I am excited that it will truly be an educational experience, rooted in community need, so it feels like it will be a win-win for all involved. I plan to start with one or two SPIN clubs this year - Kitten Kaboodle as well as another, based on what was identified in the interest survey as an area with a lot of interest and/or a top priority need based on our county-wide Evalumetrics Youth Survey or the results of the quick needs assessment I'm sending to schools and other organizations.
In reply to Ryan Kincaid

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by BRITTANY NAUMANN -
Ryan I am not familiar with your project but based on this response alone I already love it! It seems like an amazing way to get youth active and the name Kitten Kaboodle is so catchy. I'm glad you've already found an area of interest and wish you the best of luck.
In reply to BRITTANY NAUMANN

Reply to Brittany's Comment

by Ryan Kincaid -

Thanks, Brittany! I'm excited about it, and have gotten a lot of positive feedback from youths so far. I'm grateful for the PDLC opportunity to really hash things out/thing through how to do it.

In reply to First post

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by BRITTANY NAUMANN -
In my case, this project is very straightforward and a procedure that is needed within our department of CCE Suffolk. Certainly, my biggest obstacle will be implementing the procedure when there have been so many people that have worked in the department for many years without having to follow a written or formal procedure. People within the department are very passionate about their work and can take things very personally because they are so invested in the work they do. Having their buy in is essential to the success in implementing this procedure.
In reply to BRITTANY NAUMANN

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Ernie Francis -
I feel that educating your peers in project management alone can feel like a project onto itself. Would there be a way to balance project management with utilizing team members' expertise in a subject?
In reply to First post

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Joshua Perry -
Having a clear plan of execution will help implement the actions needed for this grant. Having a clear plan that looks at the needs and why the hatchery expansion is needed beyond production helps blend in the bigger picture of it all. What may get in the way is the timeframe the work will need to get done by if approved. I’m almost afraid if we get the grant that certain aspects due to time constraints may or may not be rushed but again having that clear plan before the project even starts should mitigate that.
In reply to First post

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Harrison Tobi -
So, I have talked to some higher level staff about my issue, which is that my boat motors are breaking down due to age, and our county funding and current grants have no wiggle room to replace them. The response has been nothing as of yet except telling me I should find a way to replace them. I have presented to the county legislature about my work as well as the board of directors, and all are very hopeful about my team's preliminary results and their implications for restoring the bay scallop fishery. However, I have been advised not to mention my team's need for new motors to the county or the BOD. I get that its politics, but I believe or work is important, and if we can't do our work because we don't have functioning boats, that's an issue. The concern is that the program will be cancelled because we need motors. However, I have made some headway with a collaborator who think's they can get me funding for at least one new motor. I have also looked into multiple funding agencies, but no luck there. Buying expensive equipment to keep a program running is proving extremally difficult. It will all work out though. I just need to continue to formulate my strategy and approach.
In reply to First post

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Ernie Francis -
I would like to share my 3D Printing Recycling project with the community and find a local library that can support me. My project involves turning plastic waste into usable 3D printer filament, which can reduce environmental impact and save costs. I have identified several libraries near me that have 3D printer services, and I want to propose a partnership with them.

The idea is to host events at the library where I can demonstrate the process of recycling plastics and 3D printing and provide educational resources and guidance. The library would provide the space and the 3D printer, and I would provide the desktop extruders and the expertise. I would also collaborate with Cornell University to promote the project and increase its credibility. The benefit of choosing the library as the venue is that it attracts a diverse and curious audience, who can also access other services and resources that the library offers, such as passport, paper printing, movie, and videogame rentals. I think this project would be a fantastic way to raise awareness and interest in 3D printing and recycling among the public.
In reply to First post

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Linda Altenburger -
to start putting things into practice, I will make sure I have become familiar with my time line and needs assessment and make sure not to leave any steps out. It is important to follow action plan to insure ultimate success of the project. I will compile relevant information from focus groups, surveys and other regions that have already successfully implemented before hopping into next steps.
A logic model helps me to refocus on what it is we are looking to achieve. So in revisiting that, I am better able to keep the goal in the forefront of my mind.
Things that can get in the way would be unexpected projects put in my lap that require attention and can zap energy and focus. Touching base w colleagues about reassigning tasks can be helpful.

Below are the state wide plans of work that apply to our project.
4.1. Healthy Eating and Active Living
(4.1d) # adult program participants documented to have applied healthy eating and/or active living recommendations
(4.2a) # program participants who adopt food resource management practices
4.3. Decision Makers/Policy Education
(4.3a) # of program participants documented to have increased involvement in public/community childhood obesity prevention actions.
(4.3b) # participating schools and/or communities documented to have made practice and/or policy changes to promote healthy eating and active living
In reply to First post

Re: 3. DISCUSS: How will you put these ideas to work?

by Linda Altenburger -
Personally I find an idea gains better traction when learning first about others successes and challenges and seeking feedback from a variety of sources. For instance, a handful of years ago I was charged with implementing community gardens. When identifying sites I visited several and met with leaders from schools and faith based locations to discuss and gain feedback on all aspects but most important was how vested in this project the site contacts were and who would help run with the project after set up. This was so critical because in the end, our funders don't allow us to work the garden, weed, water, etc. We provide our expertise moving forward but in the end if there were not a group of volunteers/parishners, etc the garden and project would die. I coordinated regular meetings with the volunteers before the build date to lay out action steps and "back up plans" for when unexpected problems/challenges would come up. In the end, I had 2 very successful gardens where our educators and myself ultimately taught classes there using the veggies that were grown at their gardens, teaching them the benefits of eating vegetables and how easy to prepare and how tasty too. They learned cooking skills and food safety principles. We reached children, adults, seniors and families. A win win due to initial assessment and buy in and detailed work plan. At times the work plan needed to be adjusted to overcome possible failures. Very rewarding to sow these seeds and see others reap the benefits of the "harvest."