Written by: Russell Degnan, CEO, Operation New Hope. Originally published on LinkedIn.
I had the pleasure to attend IEHP Foundation’s three-day Champions for Vibrant Health Leadership Network Summit, which brought together 80 Inland Empire nonprofit leaders to strengthen advocacy skills and collaborate on shared goals. The summit focused on agency capacity-building and encouraged effective partnerships for community improvement.
Insights from Advocacy Training
A highlight of the summit was the two half-day advocacy training sessions expertly led by the Deveau Burr Group. These sessions provided actionable tools and strategies designed to elevate our collective impact. From understanding the legislative process to learning compelling storytelling and coalition-building techniques, the training reinforced the importance of deliberate, strategic advocacy in driving policy change.
Uniting 40 Nonprofit Agencies for Change
What made the experience truly inspiring was the collaboration among 40 nonprofit agencies representing the diverse communities of the Inland Empire. Together, we explored new approaches to advocacy and shared insights from our respective fields. This spirit of partnership is the foundation for creating lasting social impact and ensuring that our voices are amplified in pursuit of community progress.
Six Advocacy Focus Areas
Throughout the summit, we concentrated on six key areas critical to the well-being of our region: Economic Mobility, Health, Mental Health, Food Insecurity, Homelessness, and Youth & Families. Each topic was explored in depth, with participants working in cohorts to develop targeted advocacy strategies and solutions.
My Experience in the Economic Mobility Cohort
As a member of the economic mobility cohort, I witnessed firsthand the power of collaborative problem-solving. Our group focused on expanding opportunities for upward mobility—championing workforce development, access to quality education, homeownership pathways, and policies that break the cycle of generational poverty. Working alongside passionate colleagues, I contributed to discussions and learned how advocacy can address persistent disparities and promote equitable advancement for all residents.
Drafting a Bill: From Vision to Legislative Proposal
One of the summit’s most impactful exercises was drafting a proposed bill for legislative adoption. Guided by the Leadership Network policy coaches, our cohort translated our collective vision into a concrete legislative initiative. This experience deepened my understanding of how nonprofits can drive systemic change—not only by supporting existing policies, but by shaping new ones that reflect the needs and aspirations of our communities.
Looking Ahead: Collective Impact and Next Steps
Reflecting on my journey through the Champions for Vibrant Health Leadership Network, I am energized by the knowledge, connections, and sense of purpose gained. The collaboration among nonprofit leaders and the advocacy tools we’ve acquired will continue to guide our work as we pursue lasting change in the Inland Empire. As we move forward into year two of the Leadership Network, I am optimistic about our capacity to advocate for policies that uplift individuals and families, and I look forward to being part of the collective impact we are building together.
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Russell Degnan is one of 80 nonprofit leaders part of IEHP Foundation’s Champions for Vibrant Health Leadership Network, a two-year leadership and policy training cohort.