Takeaways from Our Grantee Input Session 

In August 2024, we hosted a Grantee Input Session in Missoula, gathering 43 partners from 17 Western Montana communities to discuss health equity in our state and shape our shared future. This gathering offered an example of what trust-based gatherings can look like and what they can achieve: honest conversations, a chance to share our evolving strategy, and, most importantly, an opportunity to hear directly from our grantee partners.  

Below are some key takeaways from the day, which we’re sharing publicly to stay accountable and encourage other funders to lead with trust, listen deeply to partners, and join us in building a healthier, more equitable future. 

Key Takeaways from the Day 

1. Co-Creating a Shared Vision for Healthy Equity 

We kicked off the gathering by asking participants to imagine future newspaper headlines celebrating community wins. The visions shared were inspiring – dreams of thriving families, strong organizations, and a state where health equity is a top priority.  

These stories not only sparked our imaginations but confirmed that we’re all on the same page about our new theory of change – our roadmap for how we believe change will happen. We’re in the process of finalizing this theory of change to reflect our new strategic framework. You can check out the worksheets from the session to see all the headlines. Here are a few that stood out:  

• Montana Moves Mountains: Montana Leads the Way in Civic Engagement 

• Happiest Place to Have a Childhood: Montana Families Transform the Process of Parenting 

• Healthy Homes for All: Every Montanan Has a Safe Place to Live 

• Big Sky, Big Horizons: Montanans Live, Thrive, Succeed and Stay in Montana 

• Montana is Feeding Montana: Montana Farmers Providing Healthy Food for All 

2. Feedback On Our Theory of Change 

Throughout the session, we gathered helpful feedback on our strategic direction and the outcomes we’re aiming for. From suggestions to use more strengths-based language to requests for more detailed outcome descriptions, the input was honest and useful. This kind of ongoing feedback is essential in making sure our theory of change stays relevant and grounded in the real-world needs of the communities we support. 

3. Building Stronger, More Meaningful Engagement  

Our partners shared some valuable ideas about how we can stay connected moving forward. They highlighted the importance of in-person meetings (with accommodations), covering travel costs and providing stipends, and creating more opportunities to connect with similar organizations. They also asked for more regular updates on what we’re learning – whether through newsletters, tailored reports, or one-on-one conversations. 

How We’re Moving Forward 

• Refining our approach: We’re updating our theory of change based on feedback and plan to share it early next year. 

• Improving future convenings: To make sure gatherings are accessible and meaningful, we’ll continue compensating attendees for their time and travel, build in more time for networking, and consider hosting smaller gatherings in different communities. 

• Strengthening communication: From our newsletter to more tailored updates, we’ll keep sharing what we’re learning and the impact we’re seeing. 

We are incredibly grateful to our partners for their time, insights and honesty. These conversations are the backbone of our shared work to create a healthier, more equitable Western Montana. 

See the full report-back from the Grantee Input Session here.