Teaming

Three from Saskatchewan. One from Alberta. Three from BC.

Relative strangers came for a weekend of training and left a team. How did that happen?

In my work with Food for the Hungry, I am responsible for equipping trainers to lead Ending Poverty Together Boot Camps, a workshop designed to assist Canadian churches gain understanding of issues related to poverty – its origins, causes, and possible solutions (to help without hurting).

It’s highly purposeful work.

And the trainers who came to be trained share a common vision – to serve churches by facilitating these sessions and providing a safe place for people to consider their beliefs about poverty and be encouraged in their part toward its alleviation.

Step one accomplished. We are on the same page, going in the same direction, and desiring a shared outcome—critical elements to a successful team.

We also ate together.

Several trainers commented on how meaningful it was to have our initial “get-to-know-you” as a BC salmon BBQ at my home. The relaxed atmosphere created a feeling of welcome, and as one participant stated, “I feel like you really value us as part of the organization, not just as contractors.”

I do.

Experience in team building has taught me that this isn’t just a one-off. People will flourish – and the company benefit – when investment is made in ongoing ways in employees’ professional development. It’s a win, win when someone increases their skill set, expands their knowledge base, and adds tools to their kit.

In fact, we’re all better when one of us grows.

And that’s what I love about team. As we engaged with the newly revised Ending Poverty Together materials, someone would share a story that beautifully illustrates a point and immediately our collection of examples expanded. Or I would ask the question, “This is a sensitive topic for many people. How will you address it?” and was met with thoughtful, other-centered consideration for how to proceed in a manner that we can all implement.

I am confident going forward that the group I assembled and have the privilege of training and coaching will do an excellent job of facilitating the material. I have every reason to believe that lives will be impacted and that God will use these seminars to effect change. And, I am grateful to work with people who are eager learners and teachers.

After all, teams can provide invaluable opportunities to learn and grow in every category, even for the leader. Who are you surrounded by?

With love and gratitude,
Shelaine
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PS
If you’re interested in learning more about Ending Poverty Together Boot Camps or would like to know how your church can host one, here’s the link to a short video to check out.
http://www.fhcanada.org/Bootcamp/